Team Dyess RAD Airmen reflect on earning Vierdaagse Military Medal in Nijmegen [Image 4 of 8]

NIJMEGEN, NETHERLANDS

07.21.2022

Photo by 1st Lt. Kaitlin Cashin 

7th Bomb Wing

Dyess Air Force Base Rapid Airman Development Staff Sargent Matthew Gutierrez stands with the 7th Bomb Wing Gideon July 21, 2022, before starting the 4-Daagse March in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. (U.S.
Air Force Photo By 1st Lt Kaitlin Cashin)

Name: SSgt Matthew Gutierrez
Duty Title: Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC)
Unit: 9 Air Support Operations Squadron (ASOS)
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Hobbies: Hunting, hiking, working out, BBQing

What inspired you to join RAD?
“What insprired me to join RAD was the opportunity to challenge myself and experience new adventures.”

What is the most valuable takeaway so far?
“The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from the trip so far is all across life the team mentality will win at the end. Sure, they're great stories and legends that describe solo acts of heroism. But, learning about the major battles, you find units and countries that haven't worked together before fighting together in the time of need with no questions asked. During Operation Market Garden, American ground troops relied on the British Royal Air Force for air support. British infantry would rely on American armored units for additional fire power if needed. Even 80 plus years later the same mindset still stands today.”

How are you feeling about the 4 Days Ruck ahead?
“I’m very excited about the 4 day ruck. After all the training and preparation I was very excited to finally tackle 100 miles.”

• Date Taken: 07.21.2022
• Date Posted: 07.29.2022 18:25
• Photo ID: 7343645
• VIRIN: 220721-F-ZD022-827
• Resolution: 1536x2049
• Size: 549.97 KB
• Location: NIJMEGEN, NL
• Hometown: SACRAMENTO, CA, US