Armed Forces Day events to honor military service

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  In recognition of past and present servicemembers, Sheppard will celebrate Armed Forces Day May 21-22.

This year the base will commemorate the day with three events, including the Armed Forces Day Parade, a unique presentation-- the "Hall of Heroes" and the annual Joint Warrior Challenge.

The "Hall of Heroes" is a display designed to recognize several special guests, including retired Col. Rita Vokes, retired Maj. Wayne Kuschel and the late Senior Master Sgt. Thurman Teague.

Colonel Vokes has received many awards for recruiting and mentoring young business women at the local, state and national level including "Woman of the Year" and "Texas Woman to Watch."

Major Kuschel was selected to be in the first group of flight engineers on the revolutionary B-29 Superfortress and served in the Army and Army Air Corps for 20 years.
Sergeant Teague received numerous awards and decorations during his 15 years of service in the Air Force, including the Meritorious Service Medal, earned posthumously, and a Certificate of Appreciation from President Richard Nixon.

"These individuals will be honored with a special recognition ceremony and a Heritage Center display dedicated to their service to our country," said Lt. Col. Darryl Neal, the event coordinator and 782nd Training Group deputy commander.

Colonel Neal said Armed Forces Day, holds special meaning not only for himself but for others as well.

"President (Harry S.) Truman led efforts to establish this day in recognition of the patriotic service of all servicemembers in defense of our nation," he said. "This day holds special meaning because of the sacrifices being made daily in support of overseas contingency operations."

The Armed Forces Day Parade, which will include a Retirement Recognition Ceremony for 82nd Training Wing Director of Staff Col. Marcia Rossi, will be held at the parade field at 7:45 a.m. May 21. The "Hall of Heroes" dedication will immediately follow the parade at the Heritage Center. The annual Joint Warrior Challenge will begin at the 1-mile track at 7:30 a.m. May 22.