Dobbins postmarking commemorates Air Force 60th anniversary

Published Sept. 25, 2007
By Tech. Sgt. James Branch
94th Airlift Wing

DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Dobbins ARB combined history, veterans, and postage stamps to host a heritage ceremony and pictorial postal cancellation to commemorate the Air Force's 60th birthday on Sept. 18.

The illustration in the U.S. Post Office's pictorial cancellation is a B-24 aircraft that flew during World War II. During the ceremony, Bob Hopkins, postmaster of Marietta, unveiled a picture of the new 41 cent stamp honoring Brig. Gen. James Stewart, B-17 and B-24 bomber pilot.

"I wanted the guests to realize how far we've come from the signing of the National Security Act of 1947 up to this anniversary," said Maj. Robert Light, master of ceremonies. "The heritage aspect of this ceremony was overwhelming, and the feedback was very positive."

World War II veterans along with the Marietta Postal Service joined Dobbins in honoring the Airmen and members of the local community who've made the Air Force what it is today.

"Most people have to revert to books, television or the Internet to learn history," said Maj. Todd M. Copley, project coordinator. "There's nothing like giving people an opportunity to see living history before their eyes"

The ceremony didn't only lend itself to pictorial stamp cancellations, but it also gave people a big glimpse into Air Force history.

James "Jimmy" Stewart was a famous Hollywood actor before joining the Army Air Forces in 1941. During his tenure, he was the commander of the 703rd Bomb Squadron, sister unit to the 700th Bomb Squadron at Dobbins during World War II.

Bob Ormsby, president, Aviation Museum of Marietta, gave a brief history of Lockheed-Martin, its building of Air Force aircraft and its involvement with the Marietta community.

Hap Chandler, a B-24 navigator and World War II veteran, stressed the importance of community support when it comes to our Airmen.

"It takes a number of people to get one Airman over the target," said Mr. Chandler. "Base, community and family support such as this makes it all worthwhile."

Master Sgt. Michael Varnado, 700th Airlift Squadron life support specialist, dressed as a World War II pilot, along with Hiram Little and Earl Martin, two original Tuskegee Airmen, represented Atlanta Chapter Tuskegee Airmen.

"We continue to move forward by remember the sacrifices made by those who served before us," said Sergeant Varnado. "Being aware of the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen creates a since of pride in today's Airmen."

What initially was planned as a postmarking ceremony evolved into a heritage celebration that many within the audience will remember from years to come.

"I allotted 25 minutes before the end of the ceremony for any veteran to come forward and talk about their Army Air Corps and Air Force experiences," said Major Copley. "I was just blown away by the stories. Amazing!"

While the 60th Anniversary Pictorial Cancellation is just a small contribution to U.S. history, the ceremony paid big dividends in bringing together Air Force members, community and veterans.

"I would narrow the overall feeling of the attendees down to three categories," said Major Light. "Pride in service, a better understanding of our heritage, and a look into where the next 60 years may take us."