Veterans Week in the Big Country

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Peter Thompson
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Beginning Nov. 6, 2014, Team Dyess Airmen participated in several events in the Big Country celebrating past, current and future members of the United States military which was organized by the Military Partnership of West Central Texas.

One the morning of Nov. 6, Maj. Brian Buschur, 7th Bomb Wing executive officer, Tech. Sgt. Gregory Talley 7th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal technician, and Staff Sgt. Mikel Fair, 7th Comptroller Squadron financial analysis supervisor, went to Maddison Middle School to speak to children and their families about many aspects of military life as part of "Take a Veteran to School Day".

The three Airmen spoke about service and sacrifice, opportunities that have arisen through the Air Force and benefits of being in the military.

Talley went on to introduce several other Airmen from the EOD flight. The team set up a demonstration showing how tools they use on a daily basis all depend on the knowledge many of the students were beginning to learn in school.

That night the documentary "4-4-43" was screened at the Dyess base movie theater. Mr. John D. Lukacs introduced the movie which highlighted the life and acts of heroism of Lt. Col. Edwin Dyess, the base's namesake.

The film debuted nearly a year ago in downtown Abilene. After a large and enthusiastic audience response, it was decided to bring the film to Dyess.

The following morning, Sat. Nov. 8, Dyess Airmen marched in uniform and in formation alongside other local military organizations, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps units and high school marching bands during the annual Taylor County Veterans Day parade in downtown Abilene.

Col. Michael Bob Starr, 7th Bomb Wing commander, served as the event's guest of honor. Before the procession began, Starr thanked the community for their support and explained what drives Dyess and its Airmen to mission success.

"There are three things we really draw our strength from: an unyielding commitment to freedom, the unconditional love of our families, and the unwavering support of our communities," Starr said.

Following the parade, many veterans made their way to Abilene's 2014 Veterans Day Celebration and Benefits Fair where they were greeted by local organizations dedicated to aiding and providing for service members. After a free lunch, local community leaders addressed the audience and read proclamations from heads of the state government.

The event was open to all military members past and present and their families. The Military Partnership of West Central Texas hosted the event where representatives from numerous community and government agencies that provide services to veterans provided information about available programs and benefits.

Maj. Sarah Babbitt, 7th Security Forces Squadron commander, was the keynote speaker for the event. She spoke about women's role in today's military and the contributions they have provided to this date. She ended by challenging women in the armed forces to continue to strive for success.

On Nov. 9, Hardin-Simmons University hosted the Air Force Band of the West for a Veterans Tribute Concert. The concert honored all service members: past, present and future. The event was not organized by the Military Partnership of West Texas, but had the same intent in mind, recognizing and paying to tribute to military veterans.

Their visit to Abilene was the last stop in a tour which averages more than 300 performances per year.

Before introducing the band, Starr thanked the University and community for making the event possible.