Huynh named Honor Guard member of the year for 123rd Airlift Wing

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Vicky Spesard
  • 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. --  Master Sgt. Bao Huynh of the 123rd Force Support Squadron has been named the Kentucky Air National Guard's Outstanding Honor Guard Member of the Year for 2013.

A 14-year veteran of the Air National Guard, Huynh had always admired the Honor Guard for its commitment to excellence, and he jumped at the opportunity to join the base squad when the opportunity presented itself two years ago.

"When I first saw what the Honor Guard did and how sharp they looked, I knew I wanted to be a part of what they stood for," said Huynh, unit training manager for the 123rd FSS.

"When I learned how much they mean to our veterans and the people we serve, being a part of the team began to mean something more for me."

Huynh's duties include presenting the colors at public events and performing military funeral rites such as the presentation of the American flag to fallen service members' families -- a role he takes to heart.

"When I see the pride in the families' faces that they have for their loved one, it makes me want to do my best for them," Huynh said. "It is my job and my responsibility to look the best that I can, to be the most professional that I can be and to give as much honor to that family member as I can. They deserve that for the sacrifice that was made."

Huynh's attention to detail is one of many things that led to his selection as Outstanding Honor Guard Member of the Year, according to Master Sgt. Jennifer Thiery, services superintendent.

"Every day when he comes in, he has a smile on his face and he is ready to work," Thiery said. "Not only is he prepared, he ensures that other members of the Honor Guard are ready as well. He is constantly helping them to train for Honor Guard duties because it is that important to him. He understands the value of what the Honor Guard does."

That understanding is a trait Huynh believes should be passed down to each member of the team.

"It is important for each of them to know that we are the face of the Air Force," he said. "We are the ones front and center that everyone sees. It is our responsibility to look our best, to perform with precision, and to set a high standard of expectations."