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NEWS | April 23, 2014

Top-Notch Wingman

By Airman 1st Class Ryan J. Sonnier 11th Wing Public Affairs

Airman 1st Class Patricia Harris was recognized as the 11th Wing Warrior of the Week, April 23 at the Jones building here. Harris embodied the Wingman concept when she noticed a fellow Airman's sign of distress.

Harris, a U.S. Air Force Honor Guard ceremonial guardsman, noticed her friend posted something on social media that worried her. Recognizing her friend may have been suicidal, she called security forces to intervene. The intervention was successful, and Harris' quick action saved the Airman's life.

A Guam native, Harris, joined the Air Force in August 2013, after spending several months in the Delayed Entry Program. This is her first assignment.

"I joined because I've always liked structure and I wanted to serve," said Harris. "I wanted to be part of the best of the best; I think the Air Force is the best."

Harris' ceremonial guardsman duties include Air Force and Joint Service ceremonies in the National Capital Region. She also assists with arrival and wreath-laying ceremonies for military leaders at the Pentagon and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Va.

"I plan on staying in for at least 20 years," said Harris. "The military has a lot of opportunities."
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