TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Taking some time out of their Thanksgiving day plans to serve the holiday meal to our veterans is less like sacrifice, and more like a reward, just to hear the stories and see the smiles of the men and women who served in through past wars, to pave the way for us, and future generations.
Although the 349th Air Mobility Wing began this volunteer effort many years ago, they were joined by Airmen of the 60th AMW and the 621st Contingency Response Wing, who listened to the instructions from Miss Sharon and Miss Deborah, and took their places on the serving, line, in the dining room, at the beverage table, and also in other residences on campus.
With more than ample help between the Airmen and the dining room staff, there was lots of visiting with the veterans, listening to and sharing stories, laughing, tears, and hugs.
At Operation Give Thanks Mr. Bob was surrounded by First Sergeant, Master Sgt. Erin Esquer and her son, Flight Nurse, Maj. Emily Wolfe and Flight Nurse Capt. Betsy Mayes and her daughter. He will celebrate his 100th birthday on Dec. 17. He is believed to be the last surviving B-29 bomber pilot, flying missions over Germany in World War II. With the assistance of his rolling walker, he had walked to the Main Dining Facility from his residence. We look forward to seeing him there next Thanksgiving!