Watching the big wigs

I had the opportunity to attend the ACA (Air Commando Association) renunion dinner last night. It was a special evening for a lot of reasons. The original general who started the 1st ACG was in attendance. Major General Jon Alison sat with his troops from WWII.

Gen Arnold directed veteran fighter pilots Lieutenant Colonels Philip G.Cochran and John R. Alison to build a self-reliant composite fighting force to support British Brigadier General Orde C. Wingate and his “Chindits” on long-range penetrations into Burma against the Japanese. By March 1944, this force was designated the 1st Air Commando Group (1 ACG).
These air commandos flew over hazardous mountains and jungles to find and resupply the highly mobile British ground forces in hostile territory. From these missions, the 1 ACG earned its motto of “Any Place, Any Time, Any Where” - a variation of which is still used today

There were a lot of current Air Force in attendance as well. Saw quite a few "stars". I believe there were 5 uniformed Generals in attendance, and a myriad of retired. The draw for all these "stars" was the speaker and honored guest, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force. Gen. Norton A. Schwartz spoke to the group. I was quietly amused at how many active duty high ranking staff became ACA members in the last few months. I imagine the opportunity to sit with, hear, and talk to the highest ranking military officer in the Air Force doesn't come along very often.
I was incredibly impressed by Gen. Schwartz. He didn't appear to fit the stereotype of what one would expect from a career military man who sits with the President as part of the Joint Staff. When the ROTC presented colors and sang the national anthem he made a bee-line for the singer and shook his hand. His speech was on target, and well prepared. He generally addressed Gen. Alison and his group. This was to be their last formal gathering.

Whenever I attend these functions I am always impressed by the people. 300+ individuals who served us, their country. They are all almost to a one full of pride, strength, heroism, and commitment. Yet, they have no ego. They voluntarily chose to make their sacrifices.
It was honor to sit beside them.