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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - A select group of Airmen at
Bagram demonstrate dedication and commitment as they carry on a
tradition of honor. About twenty Airmen serve in the base honor
guard, supporting ceremonial requests for the airfield here where
they continue, despite their location, to “honor with dignity”.
Volunteers comprise the honor guard, who even with their busy
schedule, find the time to contribute to the team.
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U.S. Air Force Honor guardsmen from Bagram Air Field,
Afghanistan, practice for a change of command ceremony May 9, 2014.
The Airmen are part of Bagram's honor guard. As a guardsmen they
demonstrate dedication, commitment and precision, as well as
skillful execution of ceremonial drills. (U.S. Air Force by Staff
Sgt. Evelyn Chavez)
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“Being part of the honor guard gives me a sense of
pride,” said Senior Airman Adrian Whitehurst, 455th
Expeditionary Logistics Squadron, currently deployed from
Travis Air Force Base, Calif., and a native of Chesapeake,
Va.
While most would think that working 12-15 hour
days is enough, these Airmen have made a commitment, and
given up personal time to be part of
Bagram's honor guard. The guardsmen practice for an hour a
week and are on-call whenever needed.
“Anything that
is requested of us, we support,” said Staff Sgt. Bryant
Brown, 455th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron,
currently deployed from Scott Air Force Base, Ill., and a
native of Baltimore, Md. “From changes of command to
possible dignified transfers... It is somewhat different
because of where we are but how we do it is still the same.”
As they may be called upon to transfer a brother or
sister in arms who have given the ultimate sacrifice, the
honor guard also supports events such as changes of command,
honoring distinguished guests and official ceremonies.
Because of the high visibility and recognition of these
Airmen, they must demonstrate high standards of dress and
appearance, as well as flawless execution of ceremonial
drills even in the deployed environment.
“The honor
guard contributes to all core values, we represent
everything the Air Force stands for,” said Brown.
Although these honor guardsmen are miles away from home,
they continue to contribute to the tradition of rendering
honors to the people who are serving and have served.
“We want to keep the tradition going, even in the
deployed environment,” said Brown. “It feels good to be able
to help and provide details for ceremonies here.”
By U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Evelyn Chavez
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2014
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