Drill Team Commander transitions after notable season

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Bahja Joi Jones
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team showcased the Air Force's precision and excellence to a crowd of AF JROTC students at Battle Filed High School on Feb. 6, 2013 in Haymarket, Va.

For one member, it was more than just another recruiting expedition; it was his final performance with the Drill Team and an end to a notable season.

"During the performance I was focused on my part of the routine, but the ride over and the ride home was a great time to reflect on the amazing year I've had with some of the best Airmen in the Air Force," said Capt. Alexander Stanton, Drill Team commander.

Stanton, a New Orleans native, has been a part of the Honor Guard since December 2011. He was the flight commander for the Ceremonial Flight before he selected to command the Drill Team during the preceding performance season.

Under his command, the Drill Team has achieved quite a few milestones.

"This season we have done more than 140 performances, which is the most done by any team in recent years," said Stanton. "Also, for the first time, the Air Force was recognized as 'best in the department of defense' when the Drill Team won the Joint Services Drill Competition."

During this busy year, he has also led the drill team as they took part in the 57th Presidential Inauguration and in the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade where they performed on live television.

The members of the Drill Team expressed their appreciation for his leadership and the things they were able to accomplish during the season.

"He is a type of officer that I have never worked for before. He is very by the book and does not accept any excuses," said Staff Sgt. Hunter Overton, Drill Team member.
 
"Through his leadership we have engaged with many more potential Airmen than ever before."

Stanton will continue to work with the Honor Guard, but will be transitioning to become the assistant director of operations for the Ceremonial Flight.

"It is tough to walk away from a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but now I will have more time to dedicate to my job as a Ceremonial Guardsman," said Stanton.