Carolina Hurricanes honor 4 FW Airman at Military Appreciation Day

by Airman 1st Class Brittain Crolley
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/28/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The National Hockey League's Carolina Hurricanes recognized Senior Airman William Harris, 4th Communications Squadron cyber operations technician and the 4th Fighter Wing's Airman of the Year, during a Military Appreciation Day, March 16, in Raleigh, N.C.

Harris was nominated by his squadron for his outstanding performance and the leadership capabilities he displayed during 2013. He also beat out four other highly skilled Airmen to win the wing-level award.

"Harris' dedication to the mission, community, and his drive to further enhance his technical education made him the prime candidate for Airman of the Year," said Tech. Sgt. Angelina Martell, 4th CS NCO in charge of cyber system operations. "Being honored at the game was an unbelievable opportunity for him to represent the Air Force and the 4th Communications Squadron as the professional he is."

Harris and more than 5,000 military members were invited to the game against the Edmonton Oilers to recognize their contributions and sacrifices for their country.

"You could tell the Hurricanes staff was genuinely appreciative of the military members and excited for this event," Harris said. "It was great to see all the other branches there and thank them for the work they do and the sacrifices they make. A big thank you to the Hurricanes and their staff for putting on this event and having me as their guest of honor. I had a great time."

Uniformed representatives from each of the five services were also outside the arena prior to the game to show off their equipment and talk with fans about life in the military. The demonstration included a variety of armored vehicles, weaponry and a rescue boat that patrons could interact with.

"The biggest part of these events is closing the gap between service members and civilians," said Lance DeSpain, North Carolina Military Foundation executive director. "It helps put a face to the veterans who are risking their lives for the freedoms we enjoy."

Throughout the game, the Hurricanes also took time to honor other service members in the crowd. The hockey club also launched a new program this season called the Military Rush Program. It allows military personnel to purchase day-of-game tickets at a discounted price.

This event marks the 11th season the Carolina Hurricanes have held a military appreciation game to celebrate and raise awareness about the different missions of each military service.