Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph -- Since the beginning of March, members of the 12th Flying Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph have continued to do their part to help eradicate the deadly COVID-19 virus. Just as they all voluntarily swore an oath to “protect and defend” this great nation, they have bared their arms for the vaccine.
“I’m just happy to finally get it. It’s definitely going to bring some peace of mind,” said Maj. Jacob Breth, 559th Flying Training Squadron flight commander. “The virus has caused some struggles with the student flight management schedule, so hopefully once everyone gets vaccinated, we can all get back to normal.”
Like so many affected by COVID-19, Lt. Col. Spencer Godwin, an instructor pilot with the 435th Fighter Training Squadron had to deal personally with the loss of his father.
“I’m honestly excited to see so many people in this room getting the vaccine, the process was really easy,” Godwin said. “My father passed away recently, unrelated to COVID-19, but it was a real struggle for my family because we couldn’t have the standard funeral, so we decided that when we are back to normal, we’ll get together again as a family and celebrate my dad’s life. A lot of people have a story like that and hopefully, we’re back to normal sooner rather than later.”
Like many 12th FTW pilots, Lt. Col. Jonathan Byard, 559th Flying Training Squadron commander, waited patiently in line for his turn to receive the vaccine.
“A good portion of America is now vaccinated, so you use that data as a baseline to help inform your decision on getting the vaccine, but delaying is another risk unto itself,” Byard said. “Having to cancel all our vacations and not seeing our parents in Georgia has been really hard. COVID-19 has really restricted our movement because of the added risk of traveling. With the vaccines, we can hopefully get back to normal.”
“I’m happy to be fully vaccinated,” said Maj. Nathan Moseley, 559th Flying Training Squadron assistant director of operations. “Obviously it’s every person’s choice to make the best decision for their health and that of their families, but there is information out there through the Center for Disease Control, so do your research and do what makes you feel comfortable.
“Putting your life on hold to protect yourself and family has been difficult, but I have tried to really ground myself in that,” Mosely added. “I’ve been pretty fortunate overall. I have a job, I put food on the table and have a roof over our head, so giving up movies and spending time indoors has been a small price to pay. I have to consider and reflect on all the people who haven’t been as fortunate as me. My heart goes out them.”