Photo By Sgt. William Begley | First Sgt. Michael Leddick, Savannah Army Recruiting Company, spends some time with...... read more read more
HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD, Ga. – Leaders from 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield Garrison gathered to honor America’s veterans by wishing them farewell from Hunter Army Airfield as they embarked on an Honor Flight bus ride to visit memorials built to honor their service and sacrifice in our nation’s capital May 1.
The 3rd CAB commander, Col. John D. Kline, was on hand to show support and listen to stories of the veterans before bidding them farewell. Kline commented on why it is important to honor these veterans.
“We would be remiss if we didn’t take the time to say thank you to the World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans,” Kline said. “It’s because of you that the Soldiers of today live in an environment where they are so appreciated. So on behalf of all of the Soldiers here today, thank you for your service.”
Savannah, Georgia, native William Saville was one of the veterans taking part in the trip. Saville is a retired Air Force first sergeant who served in the Korean War and Vietnam War. Saville was embarking on this trip on the anniversary of his retiring from active duty 40 years ago. He reflected on the difference between how he is treated now, and when he came home from Vietnam.
“When I got off the plane in California, we had to change our clothes because people would call you bad names, and they would see your haircut and know you were military anyway and say bad things to you,” Saville said. “It was just a difficult time. Nobody wanted us.”
As he recalled the past, Saville became visibly emotional.
“I’m so pleased that the people in the United States now recognize what the Soldiers do for their freedoms, and enjoy the privilege of saying to these young men and women what a great job you’re doing,” Saville said.
Saville said he is especially looking forward to seeing the Vietnam Memorial.
Sandra Saville, wife of William, said she believed her husband would find closure to some old emotional wounds on the trip.
“When somebody spits on you and calls you a baby killer it leaves a scar,” Sandra said. “He has many friends whose names are on that [Vietnam Memorial] wall. I don’t think he realizes how much this is going to bring closure. If I know him he will come back with tracings.”
| Date Taken: | 05.01.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 05.06.2015 14:16 |
| Story ID: | 162434 |
| Location: | HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD, GEORGIA, US |
| Hometown: | SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, US |
| Web Views: | 87 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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