JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
A media day, highlighting base units who with be participating in the 58th Presidential Inauguration, was hosted here, Jan. 13, 2017.
The event allowed local and national media to interview Air Force leaders and Airmen who will be participating in the 58th Presidential Inauguration.
The media included an inaugural parade demonstration of the Air Force parade component, as well as demonstrations of other supporting Air Force missions, including explosive ordnance disposal, military working dog security support, medical and several others.
“We support visits from many distinguished guests, including the president and vice-president, and be-cause of that we constantly maintain a high standard of readiness,” said Staff Sgt. Benny Norman 11th Security Support Squadron military working dog handler, as he stood next to his MWD, Marco. “One big difference about the inauguration is that it is an especially busy time for us, but MWD Marco and I are definitely ready to get to work.”
Air Force support for the inauguration is a total force effort. Three additional Joint Base Andrews units are part of the team – The 89th Airlift Wing, the 113th Wing, and the 459th Air Refueling Wing.
Approximately 1,200 Air Force members, including those comprising the U.S. Air Force Band and Honor Guard, representatives from the Air Force District of Washington, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Academy will provide ceremonial support for the inaugural parade and cordon.
“I’m very excited. I remember watching the last inauguration on TV years ago and being able to be a part of one now is really surreal,” said Airman 1st Class Chante Barber, United States Air Force Honor Guard member.
Barber also expressed that welcoming the new president is a huge honor for her.
An additional 300 Air Force members will provide behind-the-scenes support assisting with planning, security, logistics, personnel and medical support.
Historically, up to 5,000 total force military personnel have provided ceremonial support during the in-augural period, which is the five days before and, four days after, the presidential inauguration.
Col. E. John Teichert, Joint Base Andrews and 11th Wing commander, will lead the Air Force team during the inaugural parade.
“It is our privilege and honor to represent the U.S. Air Force at our nation's 58th Presidential Inauguration,” said Teichert. “I hope everyone who sees us a week from today will feel their hearts swell with pride as we represent the U.S. Air Force with precision, discipline and excellence.”