News

37th FTS performs special flyby

  • Published
  • By Submitted by Major Ervin Powers
  • 37th Flying Training Squadron
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  For many, July 4 celebrations are made of fireworks, cookouts and fun with friends. Lieutenant Col. Dean "Stag" Stephens and Maj. Ervin Powers, both members of the 37th Flying Training Squadron, were able to experience a special celebration July 3. They were invited to support 45 new recruits with a 2-ship T-37 fly over, at the close of their swearing-in ceremony at a Chattanooga Lookouts baseball game. The event, put together by the 332nd Recruiting Squadron, has become an annual event attracting about 8,000 people. The event was coordinated by Staff Sgt. Michael Johnson, enlisted accessions recruiter.
The day began with a static display of the T-37 at Chattanooga's Lovell Field for all recruits and family members. This meeting with our future Airmen was a reminder of why many of us dedicate or lives to serving our country. From the future linguist to the avionics technician to the security forces recruit, those men and women were full of energy and excited about beginning their new career. Many are the first in their family to serve in the armed forces.
"This fly-over will have a lasting impact and drive home the power of the US Air Force. Many recruits and their families only see a jet or jets at an Air Show and those are few and far between," said Sergeant Johnson.
After the static display, the recruits were taken to the ballpark where they began their journey as Airmen. The recruits were sworn in by Lt. Col. Robert Keirstead, 332nd Recruiting Squadron commander. Immediately following the ceremony, Colonel Stephens led the flyby, thus welcoming the Air Force's newest members. The recruits were then treated to a perfect night of baseball and fireworks. In fact the game ended in true fashion: the home team, Chattanooga Lookouts, were down by one with two outs in the bottom of the ninth and ended up winning in spectacular fashion.
"It was unforgettable. It doesn't get any better than this," said a recruit.
We hope that all those recruits continue to maintain their enthusiasm and we wish them the best of luck. As a BLAZE Team, we am reminded of our important role in training all new Air Force members, officer and enlisted. Let's not forget that we celebrate Independence Day every time we put on the uniform.