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LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (June 1, 2012) - Since the dawn of
war, epic battles have inspired songs and stories of bravery,
courage, heroism and selfless service; and sometimes the warriors
who fought those battles have become legends themselves.
Members of the Legion of Valor pose for a group photograph at
Langley Air Force Base, Va., during a tour of the base, May 31,
2012. During the visit, members watched an F-22 Raptor aerial demo,
toured the aircraft and participated in a memorial service, honoring
the members that passed away since their last annual meeting. Photo
by Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth |
Thirty-eight members of the Legion of Valor, all of whom
received either the Medal of Honor, Navy Cross,
Distinguished Service Cross or Air Force Cross came to
Langley Air Force Base, Va., to meet with airmen and tour
the base, May 31.
"The amazing individuals in this
organization are truly national treasures," said retired
U.S. Marine Col. Susan Malone, wife of Navy Cross recipient
George Malone - who also attended the event.
During their visit, Legion members watched
an F-22 Raptor aerial demonstration, toured the aircraft and
participated in a memorial service honoring the members who
passed away throughout the year. All along the way, the
group exchanged stories and experiences with the men and
women currently serving at Langley.
"It's a great
thing for all of us, especially our airmen," said Col. Kevin
Robbins, 1st Fighter Wing commander.
Robbins' feeling
of appreciation was shared by Legion member as well. After
observing a Raptor in flight, former 1st FW pilot James
Kunkle said of the technologically advanced aircraft,
"awesome is an understatement."
Kunkle, who flew
P-57 Mustangs in World War II, received the Distinguished
Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action against
the enemy near Aachen, Germany, Sept. 16, 1944.
In
addition to meeting with active-duty military personnel, the
Legion supports educational programs such as ROTC, presents
awards to charities, provides guest speakers to special
events and provides an environment for the members to
reminisce about their shared experiences.
Donald
Marx, the Legion's national commander, described the
organization as, "a pretty close fraternity." He said the
members share a special bond, a common language and
understanding, and never refer to each other by rank - which
ranges from private first class to four-star general.
Regardless of rank or generation, and no matter what
acts of valor they performed, these war-heroes themselves
often express respect for the accomplishments of the men and
women in the military service today.
"I'm so proud of
you," Kunkle said, "All of you."
By USAF Tech. Sgt. Barry Loo
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2012
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