CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Name: Airman 1st Class Stephen Harper
Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas
Time in the Air Force: one-and-a-half years
Squadron and job title: 437th Aerial Port Squadron aerial porter
Time on the Honor Guard: two months
Why did you join the Honor Guard? I joined to be able to give respect to people who died for our country, and I think that's one of the greatest honors. I also joined because I get to represent the entire Air Force and it's just something I love to do.
What is your favorite aspect of the Honor Guard? My favorite aspect is striving for perfection and training to be a better person all around.
What was your most memorable moment in the Honor Guard? Right after a funeral, an elderly man came up to me with tears in his eyes and said how it was one of the greatest funerals he's seen - he was prior military. It just felt awesome to have him tell us we did a great job.
What are your short- and long-term goals? As a short-term goal I hope to achieve below the zone. As long-term goals, I want to eventually try out for the national Honor Guard and someday become a high school choir teacher.
What is your favorite quote? "Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity." - Gen. George S. Patton