Wing Chaplain bids Farewell

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Paul Dean
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  It's one thing to say an Airman has roots within his or her organization or base, but when your grandfather farmed land that is now part of the base where you've served for more than 18 years, attachment takes on new meaning.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) William Chambers is moving to a position with SOUTHCOM after more than 18 years as the lead chaplain for the 482nd Fighter Wing here. He leaves with a heart full of joy at the time he shared with the 482nd FW family and reminds Airmen at Homestead Air Reserve Base that he'll always be part of the Homestead family.

The chaplain was presented with the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal by 482nd FW Commander Col. Randy Falcon, who also praised the chaplain for the depth and breadth of his spiritual guidance to the wing during his almost two decades of service here.

The parting ceremony was officiated by Chaplain (Capt.) Vincent Cummings, who will now serve as the lead wing chaplain. Chaplain Cummings, who has known Chaplain Chambers for many years, highlighted many of the areas in which the new SOUTHCOM Garrison Chaplain mentored him throughout his career and personal life. "He's the most important mentor in my life," said Chaplain Cummings.

Chaplain Chambers was joined by his wife, children, and several other family members during the ceremony, which featured presentation of the MSM, public praise from several wing members who've been touched by Chaplain Chambers' spiritual guidance, and an uplifting talk from Chaplain Chambers.

Chaplain Chambers recounted several stories about service as the 482nd FW chaplain, talked about notable missions he'd participated in, and communicated lessons from the sum of his experiences here: to train as if this is the real thing all of the time. "We shouldn't have to change gears when we are told this is the real thing," said Chaplain Chambers. "We are the air warriors and should always be prepared to defend this nation," he added.

Part of what is now Homestead Air Reserve base was once farmed by Chambers' grandfather. The land was sold to the military as the base grew.