Photo By Master Sgt. Mark Thompson | A member of the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Base Honor...... read more read more
Annually, the 32nd IS hosts a memorial to pay tribute to their heritage. The lineage began with the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron, which was activated at Gainesville Army Air Field, Texas, in June 1943. Two months later, in August, the squadron was re-designated as the 32nd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron.
During the ceremony, Andrew Anthony, 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing historian, informed those in attendance of the specifics of the 32nd PRS mission during WWII.
“While it is fitting that we honor those who lost their lives when the (Liberty Ship) Paul Hamilton was destroyed, we should also remember the 32nd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron members who survived the German attack on April 20, 1944, and helped rebuild the squadron after they arrived in Italy,” said Anthony.
He went on to say that the survivor’s efforts to overcome the tragedy of losing most of their squadron in a single attack and getting the 32nd PRS back in the fight as quickly as possible ensured that the men who lost their lives on April 20, 1944, did not die in vain.
After Anthony explained the squadron’s heritage and the importance of continuing the legacy, Col. Paul Rozumski, 32nd IS commander, spoke to the Airmen about their importance to the mission and the squadron’s heritage.
“Just as our forefathers in the 32nd PRS answered our nations call to defend freedom, we too act as our nation’s sword and shield, its sentry and avenger,” said Rozumski. “The current fight evolves and will continue to challenge our resolve and fortitude. I know we will always prevail. Every single one of you defends this great and grateful nation and all that it stands for.”
The ceremony ended with a flag folding ceremony held by the 70th ISRW Base Honor Guard.
Rozumski never wants the Airmen of the 32nd IS to forget their Air Force ISR heritage.
“The Blue Knights conduct 24/7 global reach-back and expeditionary collection operations,” said Rozumski. “We are operators. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, build teams and ensure no Airman is alone. We are mindful of our legacy and take pride in knowing that those who came before us would be proud to stand with us."
| Date Taken: | 04.20.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 05.09.2017 16:07 |
| Story ID: | 233186 |
| Location: | FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 293 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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