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8AF dedicates new memorial

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kristina Barrett
  • Eighth Air Force Public Affairs
A new memorial flag pole was dedicated here Thursday in honor of Eighth Air Force Airmen and their service to their country.

Lieutenant Gen. Robert Elder, Eighth Air Force commander, dedicated the new flag pole located at the northwest corner of the Eighth Air Force building grounds. It recognizes the service of past, current and future members of Eighth Air Force.

"From its inception in 1942 through the decades, to this very day, the warriors of the "Mighty Eighth" have provided sterling service and sacrifice for the defense of our nation," General Elder said. "While we don't know what sacrifices that might lie ahead, please rest assured that the men and women of Eighth Air Force know that the defense of freedom is worth their sacrifice."

General Elder recognized the accomplishments of 1st Lt. Jack Mathis and Sgt. Maynard Smith, the first officer and enlisted recipients of the Medal or Honor assigned to Eighth Air Force. He paid tribute to them and the 15 other Eighth Air Force Airmen to be awarded the nation's highest honor. These Airmen exemplify what Eighth Air Force is all about, the general explained.

"This park recognizes the contributions of all Eighth Air Force members, past, current and future," said Capt. Jarrett Gafford, Eighth Air Force logistics officer and coordinator of the event. "Our community partners wanted to recognize the service of our Eighth Air Force Airmen."

Construction of the flag pole was donated by the Shreveport-Bossier Committee of 100 and will be the cornerstone of a future memorial park project. Currently the flag pole sits in a concrete oval with a plaque indicating the donation. Future plans include adding another oval, creating the appearance of an "8" to mirror the Eighth Air Force logo. In addition, the flag will be lit and fly continuously.