Parade, luncheon honors those who serve

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen joined to celebrate the end of Armed Forces Week with a parade, drill competition and luncheon. 

The parade kicked off with the playing of the National Anthem followed by a performance from the Royal Blue Knights Drill Team. 

Servicemembers from three branches then marched on the bomb run, presenting arms as they passed the official reviewer, 82nd Training Wing Vice Commander Col. David Norsworthy.
Also present at the event were retired members from the Army, Navy and Air Force who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Vietnam War and the Korean War. 

The choir honored the services by singing each branch's song as the audience stood at attention. 

After the parade, drill teams competed in a Drill Down. Each team performed their routine in hopes of earning the prized trophy. The award was presented the to the 882nd Training Group drill team commander. 

"Drill is essential. It instills discipline and esprit de corps," said Senior Master Sgt. Robert Smith, the parade narrator from the 82nd Training Wing. 

Later in the day, a luncheon was held to culminate Armed Forces Week. 

The guest speaker was retired Force Master Chief for the Naval Air Training Command Robert Dean. He spoke about the meaning of Armed Forces Week. 

"This is the day we pay special tribute to our men and women in the line of duty," Mr. Dean said. "To all of you, thank you for serving our nation." 

To further show the importance of the event, a table was set for four, but with no one in the seats. 

"This table was left empty in remembrance of those lost in action while serving their country," said Staff Sgt. Greg Whitehurst, master of ceremonies from the D-Company 264th Medical Battalion. 

After the ceremony Airmen said they enjoyed luncheon and what it stood for. 

"I have many friends in all of the branches and my son is in the Army so it's nice to come together as a team," said Master Sgt. John Myers, 82nd Mission Support Squadron first sergeant. "Deep down in my heart, these are the kind of things I love to do."