Seattle Seahawks visit Fairchild on the "Heroes of 12" tour

by Staff Sgt. Veronica Montes
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

7/22/2014 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Hundreds of fans gathered July 17 here to welcome members of the National Football League team the Seattle Seahawks while they visited the base on their "Heroes of 12" tour.

During their visit, the audience was able to ask questions, get autographs, play football with the players and watch performances from the team's Sea Gals cheerleaders and the Blue Thunder band.

"I salute the Seahawks for celebrating our 12th man, we have 35 aircraft with Seahawk tail flashes and a lot more 12th man fans," said Col. Brian Newberry, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. "Today we celebrate both winning teams."

Wide receiver Ricardo Lockette and defensive back DeShawn Shead were the two players to visit Team Fairchild. Blitz the mascot was also part of the tour.

The Seahawks were introduced by Newberry, and Michael Larkins, 92nd Operations Support Squadron unit program coordinator, carried out the Vince Lombardi trophy and showed it off to the fans. Larkins was chosen because he was recognized as one of the biggest fans at Fairchild.

"It was outstanding to carry out the trophy," Larkins said. "I've been a fan since the team started in 1976 and they finally won the Superbowl!"

Lockette and Shead opened up a question and answer session with the crowd and called some individuals on stage.

Taylor Gilstrip, a young member of the Fairchild family, asked her question on stage and was able to hold a Superbowl ring. She said it was an awesome experience and was very excited to meet the team.

Hundreds of other fans were also among the crowd, gathering autographs and interacting with their football heroes.

"There is quite a few people out here today, the turnout is awesome," said Master Sgt. Michael Wirth, 141st Force Support Squadron systems manager. "It's especially cool since our mascot on a lot of our vehicles is the Seahawks."

Many autographs and photos later, the Seahawks departed the base, and said they had a blast spending some time supporting the service members.

"The opportunity to come out here was a pleasure of mine," said Lockette. "I've always said if I didn't play football, I'd be in the military. I love coming out here seeing new faces and meeting the fans."