Purple Heart recipient lauded by Air Force chief of staff

Published Dec. 8, 2010
By Steve Pivnick
81st Medical Group Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Master Sgt. Kenneth Gestring, 81st Surgical Operations Squadron, was honored by Brig. Gen. (Dr.) Kory Cornum, 81st Medical Group commander, with a letter from the Air Force chief of staff.

The letter was presented following the group's monthly promotion ceremony Nov. 30.

Sergeant Gestring, who was presented the Purple Heart in May for wounds he suffered while deployed to Afghanistan, is among the Airmen included in the Air Force's current edition of "Portraits in Courage."

In his letter, Gen. Norman Schwartz said, "It is my distinct privilege to express, on behalf of the United States Air Force, our sincere gratitude for your heroic efforts, which we celebrate and honor in Portraits in Courage, Volume V. Your valor and strength of character represent the Integrity, Service and Excellence upon which our Air Force was built and fortified. Your exceptional service and sacrifice exemplify the patriotism that is the hallmark of our Nation.

"I am proud to stand with you as a fellow Airman. Your selflessness and ceaseless devotion to duty are an inspiration to all Airmen. I thank you and your family for your dedicated service to the Nation."