Master Sgt. Brian E. Eckhardt strikes a pose early in his law enforcement days. Eckhardt retires on Nov. 30, capping 33-years of miltary service, which began April, 25, 1979. He has been a member of the 932nd Airlift Wing since 1992. Eckkhardt has served 12 years in the 932nd Medical Squadron and has been the senior ART (air reserve technician) for the 932d Aerospace Medicine Squadron since 2004. (Courtesy photo)

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Master Sgt. Brian E. Eckhardt retires Nov. 30, 2012 capping a proud 33-year career. He entered the active duty Air Force on April, 25, 1979. He has been a member of the 932nd Airlift Wing since 1992. As a reservist, Eckkhardt was the associate ART (air reserve technician) of the 932nd Medical Squadron and has been the senior ART (air reserve technician) for the 932d Aerospace Medicine Squadron since 2004. (Courtesy photo)

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Sergeant Eckhardt retires; caps 33 years of service

Published Oct. 30, 2012
By Public Affairs
932nd Aerospace Medical Squadron

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill -- 1. When did you join the Air Force? I decided to join the Air Force in 1979 as a Law Enforcement Specialist 81152; and spent my first year at San Antonio, Texas, Basic Training, Student Leadership School to be a "red rope" for a Law Enforcement flight, and Air Base Ground Defense school at Camp Bullis in Texas. I was stationed at Okinawa, Japan; Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Sembach, Germany. I was assigned to Scott AFB in 1985.

I was the mobility NCO for the 375th Security Police. On Jan. 11, 1991, I was called at 0330 (3:30 a.m.) in the morning to report to the Scott Command Post to receive a classified message. We were going to the Persian Gulf within 24 hours to a forward operating base with special operations units, British SAS, Navy Seals and Air Force pararescue teams.

2. When did you join the 932nd AW? After I returned from Desert Storm, I left active-duty and joined the 932d Airlift Wing in 1992. I changed career fields to be a health serves management technician (90610) now 4A0X1; I had missed the camaraderie, fellowship and shared experiences of being in the military.

3. What is your official retirement date? 30 November, 2012. Date entered: 25 April 1979. Years of service: 33.

4. What type of jobs have you held while at the 932nd AW? I was assigned to the 932d Medical Squadron for 12 years as the Medical Readiness Manager. I became an Air Reserve Technician in 1999, as the associate ART of the MDS until 2004, and then became the Senior ART for the 932d Aerospace Medicine Squadron until 2012.

5. How has the Reserve changed over the years? I have seen major changes in the Air Force Reserve in the last twenty years. We were once backfill to our active-duty, now we stand side-by-side as an operational mission, to fight the war on terrorism, and as the parent wing for the installation.

6. Any military adventure or event that stands out to you? I have had many great adventures throughout my career, from sleeping in a fox hole in the dead of winter, to the desert sands, to staying at fancy bed and breakfasts. I have been on numerous joint exercises, OREs and ORIs, SAVs and Health Services Inspections, and war. It is what you make of it that counts. Always look at the bright side of life, and you will have fun wherever you may be.

7. What will you miss most about the 932nd AW? I want to pay tribute to my colleagues for their support, friendship and what it is to serve faithfully and with humility. I will always remember our shared laughter, our joys as well as our struggles. Throughout the years, I want to thank you for the notes of appreciation and words of encouragement. But mostly, for your authenticity and trust.

8. What are you plans following retirement? I am going to travel to places I've always wanted to see. I will garden, go to plays and concerts, and visit art galleries. Also, I plan to spend time with friends. In short, I plan to LIVE.

Parting thoughts: It is with gratitude as I look back. As I leave, I am taking many of you with me. You will live on in my memories. I'll always remember the things we achieved together.
And lastly, thank-you for being my travelling companions along this large and important part of my life-- 33 years! I am forever grateful for your stimulating company and the enormous collection of shared experiences indelibly printed on my mind. Thank-you