Honor Guard commemorates World War 1 in France

METZ, FRANCE

07.13.2018

Story by Tech. Sgt. Anthony Plyler 

52nd Fighter Wing

Last week cities throughout France observed the country's national day
Spangdahlem's Honor Guard was at one such observance in Metz, France.
As a soldier it is an honor to have the color guard by our side during our national parade. As a civilian I think the French people
will be really excited and interested in having the opportunity to meet them.
The honor guard was there to pay tribute to the 4.7 million Americans who served
during WWI. Of those 116, 516 lost their lives.
France is the United States oldest ally so to keep those ties with a country that has literally been there with us since day one is pretty important.
Not only that but highlighting the centennial of the ending of WWI is pretty important I believe.
It was a very significant time in world history not just the United States and it's important to show U.S. presence in these
countries.
I'm glad to be a part of it because it's it's an honor to ceremoniously represent people who have fallen in our career, in the military. So I'm recognizing past members
and honoring them in different countries
and it's a big deal for me just because
I'm glad to be a part of something
bigger than what I am. It shows just
different aspects of what our military
members can do.
The contribution of Americans in WWI was extremely important.
Their self-sacrifice and firepower were decisive in ending the war.
For more information on events happening throughout Europe that honor
the heroism and sacrifice of Americans
who served in WWI, visit www.worldwar1centennial.org.
From Metz, France I'm Tech. Sgt. Tony Plyler.

• Date Taken: 07.13.2018
• Date Posted: 07.18.2018 03:41
• Story ID: 284701
• Location: METZ, FR