News

Wing's heritage takes center stage

  • Published
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
In an effort to educate current 55th Wing members about the wing's illustrious history, the first in a series of heritage events took place at the 97th Intelligence Squadron Feb. 5.

More than 50 active duty Airmen joined with four members of the 55th Wing Association, the wing's alumni group, to share a few war stories from their time with the Fightin' Fifty-Fifth.

"We have such a tremendous history and I don't know if any other wing in the Air Force celebrates theirs as much as we do," said U.S. Air Force Col. Marty Reynolds, 55th Wing commander, who was in attendance.

This year is special for the 55th, as they mark 25 years deployed, 50 years at Offutt and 75 years as wing.

"It's pretty unique to hit these milestones at the same time so we think it's a great opportunity to take a moment to reflect on some of our wing's accomplishments throughout history through these heritage events," Reynolds said.

Retired U.S. Air Force colonels Jim Thomas and Bill Ernst, retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel Max Moore and retired U.S. Air Force major Bill Sargent, who have more than 70 years combined experience with the wing, all shared stories from their careers.

"Seeing those younger professionals renews my faith that the Air Force is in good hands and minds," Moore said. "Their respect and rapt attention was gratifying to us senior veterans. I really enjoyed the experience and it exceeded my pre-notion of what it would be."

Hearing the 55th Wing veterans' stories was also a welcome experience for the active duty members.

"Understanding how it all started and where we come from provides a sense of identity and community," said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Vanessa Johnston, with the 97th IS' mission management flight. "I hope that by exposing Airmen to stories from our past, they become inspired and can see that we would not be where we are today without the people who came before us."

Besides sharing stories from their time with the wing, the association wanted to let the active duty members know they are firmly behind them as they support multiple missions around the world.

"This was a great opportunity for us to come back and let the younger troops know we know what they're going through," Thomas said. "There are a lot of us old Fifty-Fifth wingers out there that pay attention to what they're doing, and we want them to know we care about them and are thankful for the support they are providing our country."

The wing is grateful to the association for their support, said Johnston.

"I cannot thank the members of the 55th Wing Association who shared their stories with us enough," Johnston said. "I have a deep respect for them all and am very grateful to work with them. They care deeply about the 55th Wing and its members, and that is shown through their constant support to the wing."

The heritage series will culminate with the 55th Wing Birthday Ball May 21, whose theme this year is "History, Heritage, Honor," followed by the Defenders of Freedom Open House and Air Show July 30-31.