by Lt. Col Kelly C. Womble and Airman First Class Ramiro Ramirez
86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron July 18, 2025
Courtesy photo
“Some missions leave a lasting memory—this was one of them. I had the solemn honor of serving as the Flying Crew Chief, alongside SSgt. John Glynn, on the mission to repatriate four U.S. Soldiers who tragically lost their lives in Lithuania. Representing the 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and working in concert with the rest of the 37th Airlift Squadron, we carried out a task steeped in both pride and profound sorrow.
From the moment we stepped onto the tarmac, the weight of the mission was undeniable. I vividly recall the Chaplain’s eulogy, delivered with reverence and heartbreak. As we stood at attention and saluted while each casket was carried onto the aircraft, a heavy silence settled over us all—punctuated only by the measured footsteps of the honor guard. My eyelids grew heavy with emotion; the gravity of what we were doing set in.
Once the ramp closed, we turned our focus to ensuring our fallen brothers were treated with the utmost respect and dignity. We secured each casket with the cleanest straps we could find and carefully adjusted their American flags. Every detail mattered. This was not just another mission—it was a sacred duty.
Our commander and the entire 86th AMXS stand in full support of the grieving families. We extend our deepest condolences and reaffirm our commitment to honor the service and sacrifice of these heroes. Bringing them home was not only a responsibility—it was a privilege.”
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“Some missions leave a lasting memory—this was one of them. I had the solemn honor of serving as the Flying Crew Chief, alongside SSgt. John Glynn, on the mission to repatriate four U.S. Soldiers who tragically lost their lives in Lithuania. Representing the 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and working in concert with the rest of the 37th Airlift Squadron, we carried out a task steeped in both pride and profound sorrow.
From the moment we stepped onto the tarmac, the weight of the mission was undeniable. I vividly recall the Chaplain’s eulogy, delivered with reverence and heartbreak. As we stood at attention and saluted while each casket was carried onto the aircraft, a heavy silence settled over us all—punctuated only by the measured footsteps of the honor guard. My eyelids grew heavy with emotion; the gravity of what we were doing set in.
Once the ramp closed, we turned our focus to ensuring our fallen brothers were treated with the utmost respect and dignity. We secured each casket with the cleanest straps we could find and carefully adjusted their American flags. Every detail mattered. This was not just another mission—it was a sacred duty.
Our commander and the entire 86th AMXS stand in full support of the grieving families. We extend our deepest condolences and reaffirm our commitment to honor the service and sacrifice of these heroes. Bringing them home was not only a responsibility—it was a privilege.”