Surrounded by family and friends, Bernard Walls, the Logistics Division Chief for the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC), was recognized for 40 years of Federal service during a retirement ceremony held in his honor in the Gen. Duane H. Cassidy Conference Center at Scott Air Force Base, Oct. 27.
The ceremony was officiated by Bryan Samson, SDDC's Deputy to the Commander. Clay Carter, SDDC's G1/4 director and Walls' supervisor, also participated as part of the official ceremony party.
Walls' first 12 years were spent in a U.S. Army uniform as a supply sergeant where he served two stateside tours as well as overseas assignments in Korea, Japan and Germany. In 1989, he joined SDDC -- designated at that time as the Military Traffic Management Command -- and has served the command ever since.
Several times during the ceremony, he was recognized for his diligence in leading SDDC's move to Scott AFB resulting from the 2005 Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission (BRAC) -- a task that he handled mightily.
Walls was also recognized for his volunteerism in coaching the SDDC Basketball Team (which won the Scott Air Force Base, Illinois Base Championship in 2016) and his service to his and local churches.
After receiving his Certificate of Retirement and several other awards and gifts, Walls took the stage to deliver a moving and thought-provoking speech. Emotions ran high both for him and those sitting in the audience.
"This is tougher than I thought it would be," he said with tears welling in his eyes. "You are my family away from my family…and 28 years has been a joy."
He took the time to single out several people attending the ceremony -- including some from the early days of his career.
"I couldn't have accomplished this without the support I have received along the way," said Walls.
Walls noted that the decision to retire was not an easy one, but it was one that happened due to a family vacation he had taken the year before.
During that vacation, he was able to spend several days with some of his children and his three grandchildren, Kaihre, Abby and Cameron. It was the time with his family that made him realize it was time to enjoy life with his family.
He also recognized and thanked his wife Barbara, simply stating that she is "the love of his life, and his rock."
Before ending his remarks, Walls imparted some words of wisdom he hoped would become a personal charge to those in the audience.
"We need to encourage and help each other…building relationships is what it is really all about."
"Take the time to stop, smile, and greet everyone you meet. You never know what they may have going on in their life, and you may make it a little better for them just by saying 'Hi.' This could make the world a better place," he added.
After the ceremonial pomp and circumstance, the emotional speeches, the light-hearted banter, and the family pictures were all done, there stood a fulfilled man who leaves behind an exceptional legacy of 40 years of service to his nation. Bernard Walls will now continue his lifetime of service with his family and friends.
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