ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska –
As the leaves begin to turn an array of colors and the air is crisp and cool, we begin to notice the start of yet another fall season. However, on this particular day--Sept. 19, 2008--the chill seemed to have more of a bite and the air was a bit more solemn as Elmendorf AFB joined American military bases around the world in honoring prisoners of war and the missing in action.
At approximately 4 p.m., the Rolling Thunder, the Alaska Vietnam Veteran's Motorcycle Club, rolled in to begin the ceremony, followed by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Daniel Nigolian giving the invocation. The Rolling Thunders' then began their dedication to the POW's and MIA's.
"Bulldog," who is prior Air Force, began by carrying the rifle which symbolizes the Vietnam veterans who have fallen, and "Face," prior Army, carried the helmet representing the armor worn by the fallen. "Weird," also prior Army, carried the boots and dog tags representing the fallen warriors and Airman 1st Class Megan Darelius, 3rd Equipment Maintenance Squadron, placed a single rose signifying the country's love, mourning and respect for the fallen.
Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, Commander, 11th Air Force, Alaskan Command and Alaskan NORAD Region, gave the Rolling Thunders' heartfelt praise during his speech. Attendees could hear a pin drop along with the wind-whipping sound of our great nation's flag that stands tall next to the flag that is an ocean of mournful black and white lettering, the POW/MIA flag.
"Since World War I, more than 200,000 Americans have been listed as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action and less than half were returned at the end of hostilities, leaving just a little over 125,000 servicemembers still designated Missing in Action," said General Atkins.
As he spoke these words you could look through the crowds of proud military members and see the gleaming pride in their faces and at the same time the hurt for their brothers and sisters in arms that have fallen or are still unaccounted for. But as always there was an overwhelming sense that every person at Herritage Park was proud to be an American.
"Every Airmen, Soldier, Sailor, Marine, and Coast Guardsman that puts his or her life on the line to uphold the principles of freedom and democracy deserves to be honored. On this special day, please remember those who never came home by pledging not to forget their sacrifice, or the sacrifice of their families," he said.
And with these words spoken there was one wreath placed at the memorial by representatives from every branch of service, Air force, Army, Navy and Marines and the Coast Guard.
General Atkins quoted the conclusion of the six Articles of the Code of Conduct: "I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America."