Candlelight vigil held for crew of Raider 21

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Mike Andriacco
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  

More than 40 people turned out at dusk Thursday, July 25th, for a candlelight vigil held in honor of the six Airmen of Raider 21.

The enlisted spouses group, headed by Kim Shomo and Rachel Penwell organized the event at the North Gate in front of a collection of flowers, ribbons and cards placed there by the public.

Chaplain (Col.) David Reeson opened the vigil with a prayer and statements of encouragement.

Also at the event was Mr. Carroll Michaud, a retired major and member of the American Legion, Post 14. He took a moment to read the poem below. He wrote it to honor fallen military members years ago as they were laid to rest, and changed it to reflect the crew. It is titled, "Final Roll Call for Raider 21."

We have received sad news today.
Six "Raider 21" crewmen were called away.
Called by the Supreme Commander over all.
Today they have made their "Final Roll Call."

Come USAF patriots; let us reverently bow and pray
For our valiant comrades, who have fallen this day.
We'll drape their caskets with a banner of beautiful hues,
Those glorious American colors: red, white and blue.

That star spangled banner they gallantly fought to defend,
Unyielding and undaunted, they fought to win.
They fought bravely and they passed the battle test.
Now the Supreme Commander grants them, "eternal rest."

With dignity and honor, we'll commit their bodies to the ground,
The bugler will sound "Taps" and we'll fire the volley rounds.
The final military honors we'll render somberly and ever so sadly;
"Old  Glory" we'll solemnly precisely fold and reverently give to their families.

Each Memorial Day we will recall our fallen heroes names,
And attest that their supreme sacrifice was not in vain;
 For this lasting legacy they gave to all generations;
"It's honorable to respect our flag and to defend our great nation."

So close ranks USAF Airmen for we must vanquish our foes
While we'll honor the sacrifices of these six fallen heroes.
With pride and honor we'll march and stand tall,
And we'll proudly - proudly - salute Ole Glory
'til we too make our final roll call.

Farewell Maj. Cooper, Maj. Williams, Capt Dodson, Lt Shepherd, Lt Gerren and Col. Martin - Be At Ease.  Rest in Peace.