JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Today's average basic military training graduate is not only sharp and full of excellence; they are also pumping what's known as "blue blood" through their veins.
They have an incredible sense of duty, a love of their country and military purpose that is unrivaled throughout the world.
For John Neves, Retiree Activities office volunteer and former director, this blue blood has withstood a more than 60-year commitment to the military.
"Mr. Neves served 26 years of in the Air Force and retired as a senior master sergeant," said Col. Lee dePalo, 316th Wing/Joint Base Andrews vice commander. "He then [worked for] the Army, and retired into the RAO director slot at Bolling Anacostia Air Force Base. After building up that program, he came to Joint Base Andrews."
After decades of Active Duty service in the Air Force and Army, Mr. Neves sought to further his dedication in his retirement and came to the RAO here when it was a small office with few volunteers.
"John came into the RAO when there were only two of us working here," said Lt. Col. (ret.) Ron Noyes, RAO volunteer. "He built up a staff for the office, wrote a weekly column and often worked hours that were the same as a full-time job."
Mr. Neves' service in the Air Force was what prompted him to extend his dedication.
"Sixty years ago I was an 18-year-old high school dropout going in the wrong direction," said Mr. Neves. "It was then that the Air Force gave me the privilege of joining."
During his service, Mr. Neves developed an incredible pride in his Air Force position.
"They disciplined me, they trained me, they educated me and they gave me a purpose in life," said Mr. Neves, "and I've been trying to pay them back ever since."
It wasn't always easy for Mr. Neves, and at times he doubted his Air Force supervisors and mentors.
"The first supervisor I ever had was mean," said Mr. Neves. "At 18-years-old I went back to my barracks, knelt beside my bed and prayed for that man's demise."
Today, Mr. Neves recalls those trying times as key stepping stones in his Air Force career.
"If I met him today, I would salute him, shake his hand and thank him from the bottom of my heart," said Mr. Neves. "He taught me the right way - the Air Force way."
Though he still serves the RAO as a volunteer, Mr. Neves has stepped down from his position as director, which has been filled by Senior Master Sgt. (ret.) Ronald Teufel.
"John has recently stepped down as RAO director, but he isn't done working," said Colonel dePalo.
Through his years of service at the RAO, Mr. Neves has left both a legacy of commitment and an outstanding reputation as an RAO director.
"It's been a real honor to work with Mr. Neves," said Colonel dePalo.