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In September, 65th Air Base Group at Lajes Field and Morón Air Base gathered Airmen, civilians, and families to honor and remember the lives lost, the bravery displayed, and the sacrifices made by those who have served our country. These events marked both National Patriot Day, on September 11, and the POW/MIA Recognition Day vigil, on September 19-20, paying tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks, as well as American Prisoners of War (POWs) and those still Missing in Action (MIA).
**Patriot Day Ceremonies: September 11**
The ceremony at Lajes Field began with words from Captain Amy Bartee, Lajes Installation Chaplain, who reminded everyone of the significance of this day. “We come here to remember a day that started out like many other days, never knowing that this day would change everything forever,” she said. With solemn reverence, Capt Bartee honored the innocent lives lost, the mothers, fathers, children, and the courageous individuals who sacrificed their lives so that others may live. “Today we honor their sacrifices and their legacies,” she emphasized.
The observance also featured remarks from Mr. Chris Gerwick, Lajes Fire Department Chief, who spoke about the bravery and dedication of first responders, highlighting the tradition of the bell as a symbol of a firefighter’s call to duty and a reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. “We use these traditions as symbols that reflect honor and respect on those who have given so much and served so well,” he stated. Lt Col Raul Cantualla, Commander of the 65th Air Base Squadron, reflected on the enduring impact of September 11th, reminding the audience of the 2,977 lives lost and the resilience that emerged. “It is crucial to recognize not only the sorrow but the resiliency that emerged from the ashes,” he remarked, urging all to pay tribute to the legacy of those lost by fostering empathy, unity, and embodying the lessons learned in the years that followed.
Simultaneously, at Morón Air Base, Lt Col Christopher Curry, Commander of the 496th Air Base Squadron, addressed the audience acknowledging that while some may not remember September 11, others recall it as the day that changed history. He urged participants to carry the significance of their uniforms with pride during the 5K run/walk event that followed the ceremony, drawing inspiration from the bravery of first responders like firefighter Stephen Siller, who ran to Ground Zero with 60 lbs of equipment to aid others.
He called for moments of silence to reflect on the victims, the courage of responders, and the spirit of unity that emerged from the tragedy. “Never forget,” he concluded, urging everyone to uphold the strength, unity, and compassion demonstrated on that day, remaining always together, never alone, and united in a shared purpose.
**POW/MIA Recognition Vigil: September 19-20**
The following week, throughout the 24-hour vigil, the POW/MIA and U.S. flags remained in motion both at Lajes Field and Morón Air Base, symbolizing the enduring hope and commitment to bring every missing service member home. The event, held in observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, served as a reminder of the 81,600 Americans still unaccounted for, from World War II to recent conflicts.
At Morón Air Base, the event began with the Command team and AFSA Council walking the flag from the headquarters building to the track to mark the start of the vigil. Over 47 Airmen and civilian personnel participated, collectively covering an impressive distance of 196 laps or 49 miles. TSgt James Dillahunt and TSgt Mandelyn Cook-Jones, members of the Council, concluded the vigil by walking the POW/MIA flag back to the headquarters, followed by the U.S. Air Force Security Forces Flight and the Spanish Air Force Security Forces Flight raising both the U.S. and Spanish flags.
Meanwhile, at Lajes Field, approximately 110 volunteers, including families, participated in the vigil. Lt Col Alan Vaughn, Commander of the 765th Air Base Squadron, addressed the participants expressing gratitude for their attendance despite the weather. “This was something so small for us to give back to those who gave so much,” he remarked, acknowledging how the morning’s rain was a minor inconvenience compared to the hardships endured by those who faced captivity and hardship.
He encouraged everyone to reflect on the many untold stories of POWs and MIAs, reminding the immense debt owed to those who served. “Let us remember that the freedoms we enjoy were secured by their sacrifices,” he expressed, highlighting the importance of honoring their legacy by leading lives that reflect their courage and upholding the values they fought to protect.
