Lackland Air Force Base, Texas –
While Army Spc. Edgar Hernandez took questions from a captivated audience, the Code of Conduct morphed across the projection screen in the Alamo Ballroom of the Gateway Club.
Article I: I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
"From a soldier's point of view, like myself, I found he was absolutely heroic because he never lost the valor of defending his life or his country or his uniform," said Master Sgt. Jose Quinonez with the Honduran Air Force, a student at the Inter-American Air Forces Academy.
Twelve senior NCOs from IAAFA, along with a translator, attended the event. Article 6: I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America. Senior Master Sgt. Horacio Labrador with the Panamanian Navy, another student at IAAFA, said he was impressed with the Soldier's attitude, not only in the war zone, but once he returned home.
"He returned to his country and still believed in the cause of his nation." Calling the former POW a testimony for why we wear the uniform, Chief Master Sgt. Dwayne Hopkins, 37th Training Wing command chief master sergeant, presented Specialist Hernandez with a 37th TRW coin at the conclusion of the luncheon.