JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Name: Airman 1st Class Ronald Sangston III
Hometown: Sutter, Calif.
Squadron and job title: 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft hydraulic systems journeyman
Time in Air Force: One year and 10 months
Time in Honor Guard: 10 months
What inspired you to join the Honor Guard? The briefing that Honor Guard members gave at the First Term Airman Center I attended. It was the perfection in dress and appearance, customs and courtesies, and drill and ceremonies portrayed by not only the members giving the briefing, but by the members in the slideshow of which they were briefing. This, along with being entrusted with the responsibility of representing both the United States and the Air Force, something of which is far greater than any one single person, is what inspired me to join the Honor Guard.
What is your favorite aspect of the Honor Guard? The rendering of military funeral honors. I enjoy having the opportunity to show the nation's deepest gratitude to those who have faithfully defended our country - the ceremonial paying of respect provided to the veterans' families as a final demonstration of a grateful nation. There is no comparison.
What have you learned most as an Honor Guard member? I have learned to become a better leader, to be more professional, and that life is too short to just sit back and wait for things to happen. You have to chase your dreams and pursue your goals with everything you have. Some things will take a lot of time, hard work and dedication, but in the end it's worth it.
What are your future career goals? First and foremost, for my short term goal, I want to finish my Community College of the Air Force degree and then move to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree. As far as long term goals are concerned, I plan on spending at least 20 years in the Air Force, after which I will retire as chief master sergeant.
Who is your role model and why? I have many role models. Family, friends, co-workers and even some strangers have had a positive impact on my life that has shaped me into who I am today and who I strive to be in the future, myself. I only hope that I can better impact others lives, like so many others have done for me.
What is your single most memorable moment in Honor Guard? That would be the first time that I presented the American flag to the next of kin. I walked up to her, kneeled before her, and when I looked into her eyes, suddenly forgot what I was supposed to say. I finished presenting the flag and as I stood up to walk off, she stood up with me, placed her hand on my shoulder, and said, "Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."