Veterans, Ellsworth Airmen gather to remember fallen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Hailey Staker
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  In observance of Memorial Day, Ellsworth Airmen shared a moment with local Korean and Vietnam War veterans at a special event in remembrance of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice May 21.

More than 15 veterans and their family members gathered at the South Dakota Air and Space Museum Thursday afternoon, taking the chance to meet with Ellsworth's Airmen. The event provided a platform for current servicemembers to personally thank veterans for their sacrifice and service while also honoring the contributions of their families. 

The veterans also toured the base, viewing a B-1 bomber and a munitions display, and finally ended the day with a retreat ceremony performed by the base Honor Guard.

"This is Ellsworth's annual Memorial Day event and is important because it is our way of remembering and honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," said Capt. Jessica Tirado, 28th Bomb Wing assistant staff judge advocate. "This year we have made a push to invite our local Vietnam and Korean War veterans to join our ceremony as a way to thank and honor them and their families for their service, valor and sacrifices."

Tirado said the event not only allowed Americans to remember the fallen men and women who have served, but to bring together present active duty Airmen with veterans of past generations for remembrance and commemoration.

"It brings the best out of Americans," said retired Tech. Sgt. Bob Schilling. "I think about the people I fought with and was in the military with and I have goosebumps... it means everything to me."  

Schilling, a gunner during the Vietnam War, added that if given the chance, he would still serve today.

"I hope [fallen servicemembers] would say some nice things [about Memorial Day]," Schilling said. "As long as there are people out there willing to... hurt America, we had better be ready for them."