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Chief Futrell's retirement ceremony pays tribute to nation's flag

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Shane Ellis
  • 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. --  Chief Master Sgt. Benson S. Futrell, 315th Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant, was honored during a retirement ceremony Oct. 3 at the Joint Base Charleston, S.C. flagpole.

Chief Futrell's retirement marks the culmination of 33 years of honorable service in the U.S. Air Force.

When deciding on a location for the retirement ceremony, Chief Futrell knew in his heart that the base flagpole was the only option for him.

"The flagpole area has always been very special to me," said Chief Futrell. "The flag that flies here represents our nation, and those of us in uniform have a special bond with our flag. The flag and the uniform we wear are the cloth of our country. Since I have proudly worn the uniform for 33 years, I wanted to retire here to honor those in uniform and our nation's flag."

Brig. Gen. Michael D. Kim presided over the ceremony and took attendees on a biographical journey of Chief Futrell's life. General Kim is the mobilization assistant to the director of operations, Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill.

General Kim said he first met Chief Futrell when he was a first sergeant with the 317th Airlift Squadron here. He went on to say it was an honor to speak at Chief Futrell's ceremony and pay tribute to him and his service to our country. He referred to Chief Futrell as a natural leader, an example of our strong Air Force heritage, and a steadfast husband, father and friend.

With Chief Futrell about to pass the torch to the incoming command chief, Col. Steven J. Chapman, the 315 AW commander, is more than pleased with the accomplishments and results Chief Futrell has delivered.

"Chief Futrell epitomizes what it means to be a Chief Master Sergeant, the top 1 percent of our enlisted force," said Col. Chapman. "He is a great mentor and leader with a passion for the men and women of the 315 AW. He has made a positive impact on the 315th, and he is leaving us in outstanding condition."

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