News

Commander parades about town

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Charles Loftland
  • Air Force Reserve Recruiting
MCCHORD FIELD, Wash., --  Some Reservists couldn't think of a better place to spend Independence Day 2012 than in Washington state's first incorporated town of Steilacoom.

The 446 Airlift Wing of Joint Base Lewis-McChord boasted its colors when Col. Bruce Bowers, 446 Airlift Wing commander, and his wife Kim, sported their personal 1916 Ford Model T while convoying in the town's parade. Air Force Reserve Recruiting also participated with its colorfully-wrapped vehicles and tossed out T-shirts, Air Force Reserve baseballs, and lighted key chains to hundreds of people along the parade route.

The annual Fourth of July Celebration was kicked off with a festive parade that included vintage automobiles, first responders, Samoan dancers, and patriotic costumed players who were all led off by an Army Marching Band.

Master Sgt. Christopher Brown, Air Force Reserve recruiter, felt the wing's participation was key in Air Force Reserve awareness efforts.

"These events give the community maximum exposure to not only recruiting efforts, but more importantly, our wing as a community partner," said Brown.

Airman First Class Beau Schonberg, 446th Security Forces Squadron, who is from Tacoma, participated in the parade as well. It was his first Steilacoom parade and he was excited about the opportunity to be part of it.

"It's good to see everybody getting together. The people's response to the Air Force Reserve was very positive," said Schonberg.

Other Air Force Reserve participants included recruiting senior recruiter, Senior Master Sgt. Kristyn Ervin, and recruiters Master Sgts. Yvette Larson and Charles Loftland.