SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany

Chief Master Sgt. Vance Clarke, 52nd Fighter Wing command chief, stands in line with members of the Spangdahlem Honor Guard team Oct. 30. Chief Clarke spent the day training with members of the honor guard team to reinforce the importance the duty and encourage supervisors allow their Airmen the ability to participate on the honor guard. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Allen Pollard)

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany

Chief spends time learning honor guard duties

Published Nov. 2, 2007
By Chief Master Sgt. Vance Clarke
52nd Fighter Wing command chief

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Some of you may have seen me participate in the honor guard posting colors during the quarterly awards luncheon a few days ago. I want you to know, it was not about me.

I have had a desire to be able to train and honor our people by being able to perform, even if just in small ways, with our dedicated honor guard Airmen. I have been working to fulfill this desire.

The important thing everyone should take away is that we should be able to make time for our people who want to do this prestigious duty. We have a high operations tempo, we have a lot going on and our people are stretched, but we still have an obligation to complete Honor Guard responsibilities.

I ask commanders, supervisors and NCOs to actively recruit, consider for themselves and ensure our traditions and honors we provide continue by encouraging Airmen to step up and take on this duty.

Thank you to all who serve, thank you to all who serve on our wing honor guard, and thank you to all those who encourage and allow others to be able to serve in this way.

Step out smartly and make a difference.