Tradition of Service

by TSgt Manuel Martinez

Tradition of Service

Senior Airman John C. Wardean, an HC-130P Hercules loadmaster, assigned to the 79th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, displays a photo of his sister Kristie; his father, retired Navy Lieutenant Commander John A. Wardean; and his mother Tracey, on April 18, 2010, at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan. Sergeant Wardean carried these photos on every combat mission as a tribute to his sacrifice. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Manuel J. Martinez/released)

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Photographers Narrative

 

I spent a lot of time with a team of HC-130 aircrew members during an assignment at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan. After getting to know Senior Airman Wardean, he showed me two photos that he carries with him on every combat mission.  This image provides a glimpse into how important family is to many deployed service members.