GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Goodfellow Chapel and First Shirt Council hosted a Memorial Day BBQ at the Crossroads May 23, 2020.
During the time of COVID-19 when it is hard to find things to do that abide by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to prevent the spread of the pandemic, it is important to take a moment and remember all those who have gone before us.
Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Military. Usually observed by individuals with barbecues and time spent together.
This year, with all of the restrictions in place, the Goodfellow Chapel and first sergeant council wanted to remind students confined to base that they are still being thought of.
“We wanted to do something to give back to the students who can’t leave base,” said Master Sgt. Luis Soto, first sergeant for the 17th Communications Squadron. “This was just something that we could show that we care and are thinking about the students.”
Despite the windy day students enjoyed hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, drinks and even snow cones.
“We wanted to be able to have time to hangout and enjoy a meal together,” said Tech Sgt. Joseph Doyle, non-commissioned officer in charge of religious affairs for the Goodfellow chapel. “We are of course still following the CDC guidelines but giving the students some extra morale during a time that they would usually spend with family.”
Some students came together and provided live music for the event. During a time when we all feel alone it is important to remember that social distancing and wearing a mask doesn’t prevent us from standing with our wingmen and remembering those who have gone before us.
“I am very thankful for this,” said Airman 1st Class Liana Morris, 316th Training Squadron student. “It really helps bolster my morale by having something to do besides sit in my dorm room.”