Sheppard honors sacrifices of military veterans

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Team Sheppard joined together Nov. 6 to honor the past sacrifices of military veterans during the annual Veterans' Day Luncheon at the Sheppard Club. 

From the youngest of today's current Airmen to the oldest of veterans in this country, one common denominator transcends military history - a sense of service to country, service and each other. 

"Being a vet is a lifelong experience," said Chief Master Sgt. Bill Perrin, superintendent of the 82nd Mission Support Group. The chief said being part of the military fraternity and those experiences get passed down from generation to generation. 

The chief said there's more to being a veteran than signing up to serve. He said men and women have sacrificed in different ways - some making the ultimate sacrifice. 

"They stood up for the country for the price of their life," he said. Even younger Airmen in attendance understood what Veteran's Day was all about. Airmen Anne Schaff, who comes from a family of veterans, said she was proud of all the veterans who have fought before and the military members who fight today. 

She said it's normal for people to hesitate when they are in certain situations, especially war. But, the fact that they pushed past that hesitation and fought for their country is what instills pride in every veteran. 

"It is a big deal when someone puts their life on the line like that," she said. 

Retired Army Maj. Judson Perry knows a little about what it takes - and what it means - to be a veteran of the United States military. He shared those thoughts Nov. 6 at the annual Veterans' Day Luncheon at the Sheppard Club. 

Major Perry, a Vietnam War veteran and the Veterans Service Officer for Cooke County, Texas, said veterans have served without condition and, in essence, gave the United States a "blank check" when they signed up to serve. 

"Being a veteran is something I can't put into words," the 21-year Marine Corps and Army veteran said. He did offer this somewhat trivial, but powerful word of advice to those in the audience. 

"Be proud to be a veteran," he said.