CMSAF Roy helps wrap up successful Air Force Week in New York Published Aug. 22, 2012 By Desiree Palacios Air Force News Service NEW YORK (AFNS) -- Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Roy spoke to New York City civic leaders during a Heroes Luncheon sponsored by Operation Homefront on Tuesday, Aug. 21 to wrap up Air Force Week in New York City. During an interview before the luncheon, Roy stressed the importance of Air Force Week as a way to showcase our Airmen and the equipment that makes them the best at what they do. "Our Airmen do fantastic work around the world and this is a way to let the American people know what their military does for them. They get to know them personally, get to know them by their first name and get to know what they do each and every day. It gives the community a chance to come together and learn a little more about their United States Air Force." During the luncheon, the focus was on this year's group of 20 Airmen recognized for their heroic efforts and profiled in the 2012 edition of "Portraits in Courage." Roy believes it's important for the American public to know about the bravery, dedication and sacrifices these Airmen make daily. "'Portraits in Courage' is a series of stories about what Airmen do, the sacrifices they endure each and every day, and the sacrifices their family members make. The other part is to tell the community how much we appreciate their support. It's something to have an event like this in New York City with 12 million people and to talk about the United States Air Force and about our Airmen. From the beginning of the week, when Secretary Donley was here, with two baseball games, a soccer game and many other events, along with our displays at Pier 86, and seeing people lined outside the gates to see the events and talk to our Airmen - it's just a tremendous welcome that we've received here in New York City." Several Airmen participating in Air Force Week, along with a group from Joint Base McGuire -Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., were recognized by Today Show co-host Al Roker outside the NBC studios. Elsewhere, the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America band ensemble "Blue Aces," performed at Pier 86, while the U.S. Air Force Band's rock ensemble, "Max Impact," played at the South Street Seaport.