JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Family members of Lt. Gen. Frank M. Andrews, Joint Base Andrews' namesake, traveled from New York to JBA recently to learn more about their great-great uncle and the legacy he left behind.
Almost 75 years to the date, March 31, 1945, Camp Springs Air Field, Maryland was renamed Andrews Air Field in recognition of Andrews after he perished in a plane crash in Iceland during World War II.
"I remember visiting Andrews Air Force Base when I was around 12 years old," said James David Andrews V. "I remember the family folklore about him but I didn't realize the impact he had on the Air Force and the world."
During the visit, Col. Julie Grundahl, JBA and 11th Wing vice commander, and wing historians, shared the history of JBA with the family.
"Andrews' legacy lives on at JBA, not just in name but in our mission as well," said Grundahl. "We were extremely excited and honored to have Andrews' family visit JBA."
While visiting the 89th Airlift Wing, the Andrews family was given a tour of the distinguished visitors lounge, the heritage display with artifacts from Andrews' plane crash and learned of the impact he had on the people of Iceland, who hold a commemoration each year in his and other fallen service members' honor.
The Andrews' family visit ended with them meeting Col. Brad Hoagland, JBA and 11th Wing commander. During their meeting, the family was able view the Andrews Air Field Dedication Ceremony from 1945.
After the viewing, Hoagland presented the family a commemorative edition of the 1903-2003 Flight, the 100th Anniversary dedicated to Lt. Gen. Frank M. Andrews.
"Andrews' legacy is the epitome of what it means to serve," said Hoagland. "His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered and I am deeply honored to serve as the commander of Joint Base 'Andrews'."