Airmen represent Air Force in Torrance parade

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
TORRANCE, Calif. --  Airmen from Edwards, Vandenberg Air Force Base and Los Angeles AFB, marched May 17 in the 49th Annual Torrance Armed Forces Day celebration in Torrance, Calif. 

One hundred thirty-four Airmen from the three bases combined to form a marching unit for the nation's longest running military parade sponsored by any city. 

"We were really impressed by the extent the Torrance community went to show their appreciation for the military," said Col. John Odey, 95th Communications Group commander and one of the volunteer Airmen marchers. "The time, effort and expense put in the event was incredible. Torrance provided an opportunity to showcase our nation's finest men and women, and properly recognize the daily sacrifice and commitment they make for our country and way of life." 

Each year, the Torrance committee selects a branch to be the grand marshal, said Master Sgt. Jack Spann, 412th Operations Group command section superintendent and coordinator of the event. This year's grand marshal was the U.S. Marine Corps. The parade was one of the events of this three-day celebration, which also featured various events and military exhibits including aircraft, vehicles and support equipment. 

"The community of Torrance welcomed us with open arms," Sergeant Spann said. "They provided us with food and drinks. We also got an opportunity to meet other services." 

As the servicemembers marched during the parade, the Torrance community would yell "Thank you," and that, Sergeant Spann said, showed the military is really being appreciated. 

To show their appreciation back to the Torrance community, the Air Force team's commander of troops allowed the elements on either side of the formation to go out and shake hands with the crowd. 

"That had a big impact for the crowd," Sergeant Spann said. "You can just see it in their faces that they were happy that we took the time to stop and shake their hands and say thank you for inviting us down there." 

The Airmen displayed great pride and dedication by participating in the parade, Colonel Odey said. They were the perfect representation of all Airmen serving around the world.

"They showed they are clearly our nation's heroes, upholding the proud tradition of service to our great country," he said. "They sacrifice for our way of life, knowing they are doing something important for our country. They are doing something they believe in and have a clear sense of responsibility. This was showcased in full form during the parade. The parade was but a small measure of what our Airmen will do for the American public." 

For Airman 1st Class Alfredo Jampit, 95th Force Support Squadron fitness specialist and one of the volunteer Airmen, he said the event showed the Torrance community really cares about its military folks. 

"I appreciate the Torrance community for providing servicemembers with this type of event," Airman Jampit said. "It feels good to represent the Air Force and show the Torrance community what we are really all about." 

The Torrance community clearly supports Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, Colonel Odey said. 

"I was personally honored and privileged to march with our finest for a very appreciative crowd," he said. "America has paid tribute to our men and women in uniform by celebrating Armed Forces Day since 1949, and the Torrance community leads the way by hosting the oldest continuous event in the nation. The Torrance community conveyed they cherish the ideals of military service."