Incirlik Airmen remember those who gave ultimate sacrifice

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Paul Hughes
  • Det. 7, Air Force News Agency
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (AFPN) --  Before 39th Air Base Wing members began their Memorial Day weekend, they took a few minutes to remember the reason for the holiday.

"It is not about the beach, nor is it about cooking out. It is all about duty, honor, country and the ultimate sacrifice," said Col. Tip Stinnette, wing commander.

During the event, the wing formation saluted a U.S. flag that had recently flown aboard a C-17 Globemaster III in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was a reminder that some of those in attendance will soon be deploying into the Iraq and Afghanistan theaters while others have loved ones who are already there.

"It helps us to look inward and also realize the sacrifice that we also may have to make," said 39th Maintenance Squadron First Sergeant Master Sgt. Paul Wallace, who organized the formal retreat ceremony.

The ceremony included a 21-gun salute, an honor the head of the base's firing party, Staff Sgt. Keith Hunter did not take lightly.

"When we're paying tribute to our fallen soldiers, we're trying to make sure they're getting the proper respect that is given when you pay the ultimate sacrifice," Sergeant Hunter said.

Colonel Stinnette closed the ceremony reminding wing members why the country celebrates Memorial Day.

"We take this weekend as an opportunity to reflect on those who have come before us," he said.

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