JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas. –
As a former 37th Training Wing commander, retired U.S. Air Force Gen. Andrew P. Iosue has seen countless Basic Military Training graduations.
The graduation he attended Nov. 30, however, was like no other, as he witnessed his step-grandson, Michael Willett become Airman 1st Class Willett.
“This was just wonderful,” Iosue said. “Everybody should see this at least once. The transition these Airman go through is so inspirational and I’m so proud to see him graduate today.”
Iosue flew more than 200 combat missions in southeast Asia in the early 1970s and helped develop and implement a C-130 low-level drop system in support of operations at An Loc, Republic of Vietnam. He finished his career as Air Training Command commander in 1986 and has resided in San Antonio ever since.
The general passed on some simple advice to his step-grandson.
“The most important thing I told him was just to do his best.” Iosue said. “The Air Force provides so many wonderful opportunities, and he’s a motivated individual, so he’ll be just fine.”
In addition to carrying on the family’s legacy, Willett joined the Air Force to become a more well-rounded individual.
“After I graduated college, I decided I needed some experience and discipline.” Willett said. “That’s where the Air Force and I are a perfect match. With my degree in criminology, security forces is also a perfect fit for me.”
He imparted that he couldn’t have reached his goal without his family’s incredible support.
“I’m just so proud to graduate in front of my family,” Willett said. “They’ve always supported me in my decisions and my grandfather’s career was inspirational for me. There’s so much you can accomplish in the Air Force and I can’t wait to get to work.”