Fort Worth Air Force Association

On Sunday morning May 5, Col Sparky Adams, USAF Retired, and Fort Worth Air Force Association Chapter member went out to get the morning paper.  The World War II veteran has been flying the U.S. flag in support of the troops since the war in Iraq started four years ago, but someone stole the flag from in front of his Benbrook home.

He wondered at first if a bad storm had blown it away. “But when the pole and flag were gone, this bothered me real bad,” Adams said.  “And I flew it for 9½ years,” he said. Adams who also supervised Vietnam aircraft maintenance in Thailand, said “It makes me more than mad, disappointed,” he said about the theft.

The theft caused an uproar from fellow Air Force Association and Daedalians members and vets in general.  Marsha Krotky, president of AFA NE Chapter got a WWII Medallion from the Non Commissioned Officer Association.  Bill Lawson, a former Fort Worth AFA Chapter President said “I had the pleasure of presenting Col Adams with a flag and the medallion on Saturday, 12 May”.

Bob Slaughter, the AFA Texas State President said “I can’t believe the response. On a day when life was not the best, something outstanding happened with your support and generosity to a fellow Air Force retiree and WWII veteran.  It was hard to believe that someone would take an American Flag from someone that had devoted his life in support of this great nation.  He knew the odds for survival when he elected to enter the service, but the overwhelming desire to defend this great country came first.  As an American, Air Force retiree and AFA Member, I cannot thank you enough for your support and devotion.  I know that Colonel Sparky Adams feels the same way.  You have made a difference.”
 
After being presented the flag, Adams said “It’s going to stay there until (the war is) over.”

Written by Norm King
Vice President Communications