JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
For servicemembers, there is no greater honor than paying tribute to those that gave their lives to defend their country ... and that sense of honor is never more apparent than it is here in the nation's capital.
Several members of Team Andrews recently participated in the 2011 National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C.
The National Memorial Day Parade is a flag-waving event with patriotic marches and floats. The parade is sponsored by the World War II Veterans Committee and is an annual tradition of remembrance for those who have died serving our country.
"Despite the very warm temperatures, it was an inspiring event!" said 2nd Lt. Rachel Guth, 11th Force Support Squadron force support officer and parade participant. "I was touched by the amount of care and effort that the parade volunteers bestowed upon the military members. Not only did they organize a free lunch, but water and medical support was always available."
The annual parade is usually frequented by more than 250,000 spectators and provides the National Capital Region an opportunity to thank their fallen heroes and support those still serving.
"I couldn't help but get choked up a bit when I was marching down Constitution Ave when an elderly couple, waving American flags on wooden dowels, kept chanting, 'Thank you! Thank you for protecting me! Thank you for serving! Thank you for keeping me safe!'" said Lieutenant Guth. "My chest swelled with pride to think that I was a part of an organization that made such a difference in the lives of these American citizens."
For the Lieutenant, it wasn't just about honoring fallen servicemembers, or even being thanked ... it's about family.
"When I can't spend time with my "immediate" family, I like to surround myself with my Air Force family," said the Lieutenant. "Being a part of the parade on Monday was sharing a holiday with my Air Force family."
Lieutenant Guth added that she was surprised at the turnout the Air Force had. Nearly one hundred Airmen took part with all ranks from airman to colonel represented.
"I decided to participate because it was for a very good cause and an opportunity to represent our branch of service," said Airman 1st Class Lindsey Rogers, 11th FSS customer service representative. "It gave me a huge sense of appreciation for all the different sponsors, branches of service and volunteers that were present during the event."