POW/MIA of past and present honored at luncheon Published Oct. 1, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The prisoner of war/missing in action luncheon, held at the Sheppard Club Sept. 28, allowed a man the opportunity to share the tale of his own imprisonment - but instead he used it to praise the efforts of today's servicemembers. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Howard Ray fought in the Korean War, and was captured by the North Koreans in 1950. While speaking, he quoted Thomas Jefferson, "the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants," and cited Psalm 91, "He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler," to convey his views of a warrior's strength. After a brief review of his time in captivity, he looked at the example set by those fighting the War on Terror. "Today's men and women of the Air Force are trusted warriors that save lives. They carry on a legacy of valor," he said. "They are the vessels that embody our nation's virtues." 82nd Training Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Richard Devereaux presented coins from both the 82nd TRW and the 80th Flying Training Wing to Sergeant Major Howard. In closing remarks, General Devereaux recalled his own encounters with former prisoners of war, people whose values and honor remained intact despite their harrowing experiences, and who were sheltered during their recovery by the same military that ordered them to war. "When we say we won't forget or we won't leave anybody behind, we back it up," he said. Sergeant Major Howard echoed those sentiments in an interview after the luncheon. He said he's learned that the military is a family, and as such is always concerned about the location and safety of its members. "Thank you all," General Devereaux told those in attendance, "because just by being here, you renew that commitment in a very visible way."