Honoring Heritage

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Chad C. Strohmeyer
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
Only after enduring hours, days and months of high-intensity training with M1 Garand rifles, marching until the movements become second nature and exemplifying the Core Values, can Airmen be part of one of the most elite units the United States Air Force has to offer.

The United States Air Force Honor Guard's mission is and always has been to represent each and every Airmen at public and official ceremonies. This was no different recently as the Honor Guard and Drill Team visited Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Orlando, Florida, during a public outreach tour.

"Being able to perform for and meet with the public is always a great experience for us," said Tech. Sgt. Zachary Kuns. "Just like any other unit, we love to showcase our abilities and professionalism."

During the tour, the Honor Guard and Drill Team marched in a Martin Luther King Jr. parade, performed at Disney World and Universal Studios.

"The people were absolutely amazing at all the locations", said Airman 1st Class Jack Gutting. "With the temperature being so cold in Myrtle Beach, we weren't expecting a huge turnout, but the people still came out to cheer us on and shake our hands afterward."

In addition to the park performances, the Drill Team also held an event at Oak Ridge High School in Florida for hundreds of students and hosted a training session with Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps cadets.

"It's extremely important that we reach out to the JROTC as they are future leaders and wingmen," Kuns said. "Exposing them to the Air Force culture early on is vital as they could one day be part of our unit."

As a Civil Engineer Airman, Kuns never expected his Air Force journey to lead him to the Honor Guard, but he plans to cherish it while it lasts.

"I always expected to spend my career maintaining bases as part of the Civil Engineer Squadron." Kuns said. "It is extremely humbling and I'm honored to be a part of the United States Air Force Honor Guard."

Honoring Heritage The United States Air Force Honor Guard recently took a trip to Myrtle Beach and Orlando. Check out this video showcasing their amazing Airmen! Posted by Joint Base Andrews on Friday, January 29, 2016