Kaiserslautern American, June 3, 2016

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HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY?

June 3, 2016

Volume 40, number 22

Airman returns to Ramstein after 54 years Story and photos by 1st Lt. Clay Lancaster 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

It doesn’t happen often, and it won’t happen for some. But occasionally, Airmen get the opportunity to meet an original 1947-era Airman — those trailblazers who laid the first bricks of airpower on the long blue line. Retired Chief Master Sgt. Kenneth Andrews, who served at Ramstein from 1959 to 1962, started his 30-year Air Force career in 1947. He recently took advantage of the opportunity to come back to Europe to visit family and a familiar sight — the air traffic control tower. “What an eye opener this has been to see what’s happened in the last 50 years,” Andrews said. “If someone were to blindfold me and set me down here, I would not recognize this place as Ramstein. It’s changed that much.” In his 30 years of being an See RETURNS, Page 2

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Kenneth Andrews meets with several Ramstein Airmen during a visit to the air traffic control tower May 24 on Ramstein. Andrews had the opportunity to speak to the controllers on duty that day and share with them his background as a 30-year retired traffic controller. Andrews entered the Air Force in 1947 and retired in 1977 after having served in several combat roles during his military career.

US, French honor fallen at cemetery in France by Staff Sgt. Sharida Jackson 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

ST. AVOLD, France — On a day where many are often relaxing, shopping or enjoying barbecues, more than 1,500 people gathered at Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial to observe a Memorial Day ceremony May 29 in St. Avold, France. Traditionally observed the last Monday in May, Memorial Day is a day to commemorate men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

“It is certainly heartening to see such a large audience here,” said Brig. Gen. Jon T. Thomas, 86th Airlift Wing commander. “Today I have the honor and privilege to pay tribute on one of our most sacred observances.” American and French citizens attended the ceremony at the largest American World War II cemetery in Europe. There are more than 10,000 American service members buried at the cemetery, including four Medal of Honor recipients, 11 women and 30 sets of brothers. “This place is a place of peace,” said Retired Gen. Richard Wolsztynski. “I very humbly try to

Airmen complete Croatian Best Soldier competition, Page 10

NEWS

NEWS

It’s thunderstorm season in Europe. Run to a safe building or vehicle when you first hear thunder or see lightning. Stay indoors until the storm passes, and never seek shelter under trees.

LIFESTYLES

Tip of the Week

forward the legacy of these sacrifices to the younger generations.” The ceremony included special readings, wreath presentations, retiring of the colors and a flyover by a C-130J Super Hercules to recognize those buried at the cemetery. “Our obligation on this day and every day is to remember our fellow Americans and the cause to which they gave their lives,” Thomas said. At the closing of the ceremony, attendees stood as Taps played and salutes rendered, followed by a moment of silence. For photos, see Page 6.

Children’s fest offers fun, action for families, Page 14

435th AGOW drops base in Africa, Pages 20 and 21


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