Altus Air Force Base News

 

Wreaths Across America Honors Fallen Veterans

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Levin Boland
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The sound of Taps rings through the cold morning air as memories of her late husband lingers in the mind of Jackie Butterbaugh.

After the solemn music played, Jackie slowly walked to the grave of retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Robert Butterbaugh with a wreath held tightly around her chest.

As she laid the wreath down to rest on her husband's headstone, she said, "There you go butterball. I love you and I miss you."

Robert's wreath was only one of 1,300 that were laid at the Altus Cemetery as a part of a wreath laying ceremony, Dec. 13.

The wreath laying ceremony was a part of Wreaths Across America Day where volunteers at 900 different locations around the world placed wreaths to honor fallen veterans.

U.S. Air Force Col. Bill Spangenthal, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander, had a few words to offer during the event.

"Today we remember our comrades and heroes who have gone before us," said Spangenthal. "Some making the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom. They put themselves in harm's way so that we may know peace."

After speaking, seven members of Altus AFB and the Veterans of Foreign Wars post 4876, laid the first seven wreaths to pay tribute to all branches of the military and to those who never returned to their families and homes. 

As Jackie looked around after all the wreaths had been laid, she remarked that Robert would have been appreciative of all the work that went into honoring those who served.

"Did you know how quickly time can pass? My husband and I were married for 31 years," said Jackie. "He would love this. He would be so proud."