Three Maine Air National Guard (MEANG) Airmen were honored for decades of dedication, sacrifice, and military service during a retirement ceremony held at South Portland Air National Guard Station on June 6, 2026.
The ceremony recognized Senior Master Sgt. Peter Dootz of Dexter, Michigan; Master Sgt. Bryan Lord of Auburn, Maine; and Master Sgt. Andrew McDonnell of Windham, Maine, all assigned to the 265th Combat Communications Squadron (CBCS). Together, the three Airmen contributed 65 years of service to the MEANG and the nation.
Dootz enlisted in 2002, Lord in 2004, and McDonnell in 2006, each answering a call to serve that would lead to decades of commitment supporting military operations, national defense, and emergency response missions both at home and abroad.
While retirement ceremonies are a longstanding military tradition, this event was unique in bringing together three Airmen in a single retirement ceremony that celebrated service and family. The occasion reflected not only their individual accomplishments, but also the shared mission and teamwork that unite the MEANG.
Family members, friends, fellow service members, and distinguished guests, including Maine Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Diane Dunn, gathered to recognize the retirees’ careers and the sacrifices made by both the Airmen and their families. The ceremony was presided over by Lt. Col. Ryan Barnes, commander of the 265th CBCS.
“The careers of these Airmen reflect a deep commitment to service and excellence,” said Barnes. “Their contributions have strengthened our organization, supported countless missions, and helped develop the next generation of Airmen. We thank them and their families for their years of dedication and sacrifice.”
Throughout their careers, Dootz, Lord, and McDonnell served in roles critical to the Air Force mission, providing communications, engineering, and operational capabilities that enabled military forces to operate around the world. Beyond their technical contributions, each served as a mentor and leader, helping develop and guide the next generation of Airmen.
Dootz, a radio frequency transmissions and electromagnetic activities craftsman, consistently led personnel in high-tempo environments. In 2007, he deployed to Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates, in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Joint Task Force Horn of Africa. Dootz deployed to Kenya in 2020 to support Operation Octave Shield as the communications flight chief for the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron. His support to domestic operations includes vital disaster recovery assistance in Vermont following Hurricane Irene in 2011 and in the U.S. Virgin Islands following Hurricane Maria in 2017.
Lord, a warfighter communications superintendent, has served in a number of leadership roles with the 265th CBCS, including as the operations flight chief, where he directed the squadron’s core mission operations. He deployed to Kirkuk Regional Air Base in Iraq in 2007 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he delivered critical information support as an information technology help desk technician. Lord played a critical role in establishing the MEANG’s communications mission planning cell that continues to support operational readiness.
McDonnell, an IT systems technician craftsman, supported the 265th CBCS in various leadership roles through large-scale expeditionary operations. In 2007, he deployed to Forward Operating Base Warrior in Kirkuk, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he provided critical communications support. McDonnell would go on to serve as the first sergeant of the 265th CBCS, where he mentored Airmen and guided them through challenges, while cultivating a supportive culture.
Military retirement ceremonies provide an opportunity to recognize service members' commitment to duty and honor the legacy they leave behind. For these three Airmen, that legacy includes years of unwavering service, professional excellence, and dedication to something larger than themselves.
As they transition into retirement, Dootz, Lord, and McDonnell leave behind a legacy defined by selfless service, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to the mission. Their influence will continue to be felt across the MEANG through the Airmen they mentored, the missions they supported, and the example they set for those who follow in their footsteps.