A lasting tribute to a true Warrior

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kapinos
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, ND --  Chief, leader, mentor, Warrior -- all words that fail to truly describe the man whose dedication to the principles of the Air Force had an impact on the entire wing and whose leadership and guidance is still being felt today. The only way to fully finish mission of this Warrior of the North is through the honoring and dedication of the Walker Professional Development Center, which was finally accomplished a year after his passing during an emotional ceremony here May 30.

Leaders from across the wing, along with family members and fellow Airmen came together for the ceremony to remember the chief who always took the time out of his busy day to help a struggling Airman or lend a hand to a worthy cause. Even in death, he was able to bring together people from across the wing in order to accomplish the mission.

Emotions ran high during the day of the dedication and many tears were shed listening to the tributes shown to the chief. Even the weather added its own voice to the ceremony with the rainy, dreary skies contrasting the glow of comradeship and remembrance that seemed to help shield everyone from the cold.

"In many ways, Chief Walker's passing was defining moment for the wing. It made us come together like no mission or inspection ever could. We lost a leader who made a profound impact on our organization," said Col. Diane Hull, 319th Air Refueling Wing commander, speaking to the crowd gathered in front of the center.

Chief Walker was a driving force within the wing. He could regularly be found at meetings of the Top 3 Association, the Air Force Sergeants Association and Airmen Against Drunk Driving. He was also the primary reason for the successful implantation of the 0-0-1-3 program, which helped dramatically reduce alcohol-related incidents on the base.

Chief Walker had an impact on every Airman who came to the base by speaking to each First Term Airman Center class, as well as other NCOs during his tenure as the Career Assistance Advisor giving many Professional Development Seminars.

"Chief Walker's actions are still felt on a daily basis across Grand Forks Air Force Base," said Master Sgt. Shannon Wall, former FTAC NCOIC. "His memory will go on to inspire new Airmen as they transition through the Walker Professional Development Center."

With the conclusion of the dedication, a new chapter for the wing is being written. All Airmen coming to base will be part of the center's history and Chief Walker will continue to help guide and train America's future. His spirit and voice will continue to be heard as each class passes through its doors. He left a void that can never be truly filled, but will be remembered for all the principles he stood and fought for: family, compassion, dignity and honor.