Airmen support Falcons at Armed Forces Bowl Published Jan. 7, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Vernon Cunningham and Airman 1st Class Candy Miller 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- About 700 permanent party and Airmen in Training from Sheppard joined the sea of Air Force blue Dec. 31 to cheer on the Air Force Academy Falcons during their game against the Houston Cougars at the 2008 Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas. The venue for the game, Texas Christian University's Amon G. Carter Stadium, provided the backdrop for the academy to showcase their high-octane running game by rushing for a record 243 yards. The game was also the setting for enlisted AiTs to show support for those who will some day be commanding them. Airman Conrad Collison, a student in the 363rd Training Squadron, said although he didn't see his family over the holidays, the Armed Forces Bowl gave him the opportunity to spend time with his Air Force family. "We got to come out to Dallas and see our other family," he said. "It shows that we're united and we support our own." The Wingman Concept is often spoken about to ensure Airmen - officer, enlisted and civilian - are looking out for each other. Airman 1st Class Franklin Saa, a student at the 363rd TRS, said he was able to realize that events like the game allowed him and his fellow Airmen to draw closer as a team; as a family. "Going out (to events) makes us more like a family," he said. He said he hoped Sheppard's attendance gave the Falcons a little boost of confidence to know they had their wingmen there. Airman Anne Bailey, a student in the 366th Training Squadron, said she agreed with Airman Saa. She said Sheppard's attendance builds morale for the Airmen in the stands and on the field because it shows Airmen support each other every step of the way. "It brings everyone together because you cheer for the same team," said Airman Bailey. "Everybody needs a fellow wingman to know that we care for each other." Although the Cougars defeated the Falcons, 34-28, the event encouraged Sheppard's newer Airmen to build pride in the Air Force. Airman Collison said he was especially honored to represent the Air Force at the game. Click the below names to see Sheppard AiT giving New Years greeting from the Armed Forces Bowl: Airman 1st Class Jordan Kermoade, 366th TRS Airman 1st Class Jessica Knapp, 366th TRS Airman 1st Class Risenn Talamoni, 365th TRS Airman Jesselee Kahaloa, 365th TRS