Portraits in Courage - William Pitsenbarger

Tribute to a legendary airman who gave his last full measure in Vietnam and this video is designed to inspire airmen through stories of Air Force heritage linked to current real-world Air Force operations. The video is narrated by Master Sergeant Rusty Sawyer, a first sergeant for the 342nd Air Force Recruiting Squadron at JBSA-Lackland, the video reinforces that our Air Force Core Value, selflessness, is caring more about duty than glory. “Pits wasn’t a man who died the right way; this was a man who lived the right way. By living the Core Values.”

Honoring Veterans

Published Nov. 11, 2019
403rd Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --

Veterans Day, observed annually Nov. 11, is a tribute to military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Servicemembers such as Airman 1st Class William H. Pitsenbarger exemplify what being an Airman is all about. The U.S. Air Force pararescueman, who flew on almost 300 rescue missions in the Vietnam War to aide downed soldiers and pilots, was killed April 11, 1966, aiding and defending a unit of soldiers pinned down by an enemy assault during the Vietnam War.

Join us in thanking our veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have defined this Nation.