Public appreciates dedication to fight and win

  • Published
  • By Maj. Dennis Hunt
  • 71st Comptroller Squadron
Vance Air Force Base, Okla. --  "I hated my place in the world," Tom Cruise's title character says in the movie Jerry Maguire during his crisis of conscience. It's obvious he wasn't serving in the military today. Support for military personnel in communities across the United States is truly awe-inspiring.
Military personnel in communities with Air Force bases tend to be highly appreciated and anyone ever stationed at Vance AFB can attest to the wonderful benefits of this close bond.
I grew up in Chippewa Falls, Wis. and very rarely saw anyone in a military uniform. A recent visit home to attend my parent's 50th wedding anniversary celebration was truly enlightening. During the festivities, an elderly gentleman walking by noticed my service dress uniform, brought himself to the position of attention and rendered a perfect salute. It was among the most humbling and poignant of my experiences in uniform.
Returning his salute, I thanked him for the honor. He quickly introduced himself as Benny Hartman and mentioned he was with the 9th Armored Division, 60th Infantry Battalion as they marched through Germany. He recalled the Air Corps saved the day when the weather finally cleared and Germany positions were pummeled from the sky effectively ending the Battle of the Bulge. He is still grateful for the efforts of those Airmen and those of us serving today.
Family, friends and even complete strangers expressed their thanks to me for serving in the military. I did my best to thank each person for their unwavering support. We should be proud to have such a terrific fan club. What an honor it is to serve these wonderful patriots and wear the uniform of the most powerful military in history.
Flying back to Oklahoma, my focus turned to the memorial service for Tech. Sgt. Duane Moore. Sergeant Moore was in the 71st Comptroller Squadron for nearly four years and was reassigned to Thule AB, Greenland, in early February. His untimely death on April 4 during that remote assignment was understandably difficult for his family and the unit.
The outpouring of sympathy and support for his family was tremendous. As we entered Fairview, Okla., for the service, it was apparent the town had lined the main street with American flags in his honor. The church was packed with family and friends. The eulogy included how much he loved serving in the Air Force. Heartfelt appreciation by his hometown for his life of service was obvious. How many other professions evoke public responses that strong when a member passes away?
The profession of arms is a dangerous and demanding one, full of opportunity and challenges. Our ability to fight and win when America calls on us and the personal sacrifices we make are major drivers for the public's appreciation. Our profession is honorable and respected because we consistently answer this call. I love my place in the world. Do you?