Armed Forces Week opens recognizing service members and their employers.

  • Published
  • By TSgt Thomas Sobczyk
  • 128ARW Public Affairs
MILWAUKEE --  Each year the Milwaukee Armed Forces Committee along with the Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) kicks off Armed Forces Week by recognizing the men and women who serve the armed forces and the employers that support them. The ESGR breakfast takes place at the Wisconsin Club in downtown Milwaukee and addresses issues important to military members and employers.

A special ceremony also takes place with military members from each branch receiving the Richard Bong award. Major Bong was born September 24, 1920 in Superior, Wisconsin. He is the top American Ace of all wars with 40 enemy aircraft destroyed in aerial combat and a recipient of the Medal of Honor. The Bong award recipients are chosen by their commanders for their outstanding service and dedication.


MAJOR RICARD BONG AWARD RECIPIENTS

SSGT Edel A. Rojas - US Air Force

BW1 Adam Kraft - US Coast Guard

SGT Ryan M. Lackey - US Marine Corps Reserve

MSGT Mike A. Schmaling - Wisconsin Air National Guard

SFC Richard P. Gerard - Wisconsin Army National Guard