Photo By Tech. Sgt. Rusty Frank | Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson, Air Force Chief of Staff David L. Goldfein...... read more read more
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“Chapman, John A., Technical Sergeant, USAF” is now permanently inscribed in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon following an induction ceremony Aug. 23, 2018.
Nearly two decades after the gallant actions that cost him his life and earned him the nation's highest military award, Chapman’s name was unveiled by his widow, Valerie Nessel, Secretary of the Air Force Heather A. Wilson, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright.
“Our Nation endures and continues to be the land of the free because of brave men and women – because of John Chapman,” said Wilson.
Chapman’s name is now memorialized on the walls inside the Hall of Heroes amongst fellow servicemembers who have been recognized for combat valor.
“It’s a story that will be told and retold for generations, the ‘John Chapman story’ joins the ranks of other legends like John Levitow and Bud Day,” said Goldfein. “This incredible warrior who inspires all of us to be better Airmen.”
Chapman is the first Airman to receive the Medal of Honor for actions taken since the Vietnam War.
“Those who knew him, knew of his devotion of helping others. He would give anything in his power to help someone,” said Wright. “So it’s no surprise to any of us that he be the fourth enlisted Airman, since the Air Force became an independent service, to be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. John died exactly the way he lived – doing anything in his power he could to help those in need.”
Following remarks made by Air Force leaders, Chapman’s family was presented with a memorial plaque and the Medal of Honor Flag.
“I could go on and tell you all kinds of stories about John, but I don’t have to…I think you already know what he was like,” said his mother, Terry Chapman. “I’m ever so grateful to those who made this possible – I can’t tell you how much it means to me and my family.”
| Date Taken: | 08.23.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 08.24.2018 15:12 |
| Story ID: | 290247 |
| Location: | WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 121 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
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