HONOR DUTY RESPECT - The Citadel

Citadel Gradsin FlightBy Lt. Gen. David Goldfein, USAFIn an oppressive region of the world where the sun burns fiercely and violentextremism rages, Air Force Lt. Gen. David Goldfein recognized that scores ofCitadel graduates have been heroically serving their country under his command.To highlight their service and the institution that molded them into the leadersthey are today, he shares some of their stories.As U.S. Central Command’s lead airman, I amhonored to serve with experienced and disciplinedteammates here in the Middle East, wheretemperatures are already topping 130 degrees.Citadel graduates, as they have done in every conflictour great country has faced since the Mexican-American War, continue serving valiantly as animportant part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Itis with both sadness and respect that we rememberthe 17 Citadel graduates who made the ultimatesacrifice to their country over the last decade ofconflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.I can tell you that The Citadel legacy of developingprincipled leaders who are capable, who have asense of duty and a willingness to serve shinesthrough in every aspect of our joint and coalitionteam. Following are just a few stories of their serviceto our nation. You will be proud of these dedicatedairmen when you read about them—I know I am.1Capt. Jonathan Lester, Class of 2002, is a C-130H aircraft commanderand squadron executive officer with the 746th ExpeditionaryAirlift Squadron in Southwest Asia. His unit supports groundoperations in a variety of ways, such as conducting aeromedicalevacuations, airlifting cargo, making humanitarian airdrops in theGulf and resupplying remote locations. Jon’s military heritageruns deep. His father served 26 years in the Army, and his grandfathersboth served in the Air Force. One was a decorated P-47pilot; the other, an Army infantry soldier who later transitionedto the Army Air Corps and received a Silver Star for gallantry inaction in Normandy on D-Day. Jon is humbled to be able to servehis country, and he is proud of the contribution he is making. Hispath to serve did not follow the traditional route. After graduation,he worked as a business account executive but soon realizedhis true calling as an Air Force officer flying C-130s. He has traveledthroughout the world, flying critical medical evacuation missions,multiple-ship airdrops and airdrops over the Persian Gulfand Gulf of Oman.144