Serving those who serve: Salute to ceremonial guardsmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ceaira Tinsley
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  (Editor's note: The mention of the nonprofit organization American Legion does not constitute endorsement or affiliation by Moody Air Force Base or the U.S. Air Force.)

Leaders of the American Legion Post 115 based out of Nashville, Ga., recognized Moody's Base Honor Guard members for outstanding service and unwavering support Nov. 24, here.

The base honor guard rendered honors for the American legion four times in the last two months including professional honors at a World War I memorial and the Vietnam Veteran Moving Wall.

"We decided to do this because they deserved it," said Larry Osheim, American Legion Post 115 senior vice commander and honor guard coordinator. "They have been out in the community representing everybody on Moody. Because of that outstanding job, we feel it's only right that we recognize them. We're quite active with them and we appreciate everything they do; they're super."

One senior NCO proclaims that serving in Moody's high tempo area of responsibility is an honor and being recognized was an added bonus.

"They don't get recognized as much as they should, so for these guys to take time out of their day to come and recognize our folk for doing what they do ... it's nice to get that pat on the back," said U.S Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Steven Mandell, 23d Force Support Squadron superintendent. "It will be nice for the honor guard members after them to see the awards and see the plaques because it means something. We are doing a huge service for the community and the counties within the region."

Despite not being formally recognized often, the superior services that Moody's ceremonial guardsmen provide don't go unnoticed, said Oshiem.

"It's easy to work with them because they are eager to fit into what we're trying to do even if it's a little bit outside the box," said Osheim, who recalled an honor guard member reading a letter during a memorial ceremony. "They're eager, they're willing and it's a privilege to work with them."

Another gain Mandell hopes the Airmen took away is understanding the impact and difference they made on the lives of others.

"[After today, the Airman should] feel good about themselves and should know people are watching," said Mandell. "They make a huge difference in the community and the people they are putting to rest.

"It's closure for the families and it's a tough and emotional job for the first few ceremonies," Mandell added. "It's tough to sit in those seats and be the professionals that they are, day in and day out to present the flag and present the honors for folks who have served our country honorably."