By Justin Madden, National Secretary/Treasurer

This edition of the Grapevine was written with the thought of appreciating our military.  From our member spotlight on Dennis Tapper, a warrior who just returned home, to the various articles written by your elected National Officers, we sought to remind our members of the many sacrifices made by our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines all in their duty of preserving your freedom.  It is also important to remember that our current careers owe a large debt to the US military for playing an important role in ushering in the “jet age” of aviation. 

Many of your fellow technicians have served honorably and gained their first glimpse of aviation in the military.  With help from our carriers, Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines, AMFA was able to determine that roughly 20% of the Association has participated in some sort of military service.  Even more of you have someone in your family or network of friends who have served, and perhaps given the ultimate sacrifice of their life.  To each of you and your families that fall into those categories, we are eternally grateful for the freedom that has been afforded to us.  Many times the families of military service members are left in the background or forgotten altogether, even as they face the struggle of taking care of the family without their significant other.  They deserve kudos as well, for their service can be just as difficult.

Although it’s been over 20 years, I still remember the day I graduated from Marine Corps boot camp at Parris Island, SC.  Completing that journey was one of the hardest things I have ever accomplished.  They instilled in me a respect for those that came before me and the discipline I would need to continue the grand tradition of the United States Marine Corps and the rest of my life.  Recently, my son graduated from United States Air Force basic training in San Antonio, TX.  I am proud that he chose to continue the family tradition of service to our Country, and though I now absolutely know the fear my family must have had for me during the time I served, I respect his decision as well as any young man’s or woman’s choice to serve. 

So what can you do to recognize and help our military and their families?  Take a look at this online list of charities that you can become involved in: http://www.military.com/spouse/military-life/military-resources/military-charity-associations.html. Personally, I have been involved with the Wounded Warrior Project (http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/) by competing in races on my bike and in my running shoes.  They have several other events all over the country including motorcycle runs, golf tournaments, concerts, etc.  Take a look at their website and you’re bound to find something that interests you.  It is beyond worthwhile to help support those who have given so much more than just a few years of their life.

At the bare minimum, show respect when the American flag is raised or lowered, or the National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner” is sung.  Take off your hat.  Stand at attention or put one hand over your heart.  Quiet yourself and those around you.  It is the least you can do for the freedom that you have so eagerly enjoyed.  Do not forget that blood was willingly shed to give you the opportunity to be at the event you are attending.