California Rifle & Pistol Association honors Team March members at annual awards banquet

  • Published
  • By Capt. Kel Thede
  • 163d Reconnaissance Wing
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  On Saturday, Feb. 25, a contingent of military members stationed at March Air Reserve Base enjoyed an elegant evening out compliments of the California Rifle and Pistol Association.

In keeping with the theme of the 2012 Awards Banquet -- "Honoring America's Heroes," The CRPA generously donated tickets for Team March members and their guests to the 137th annual Gala at the Ontario Airport Double Tree Hotel.

Founded in 1875, the CRPA predates even the National Rifle Association as an organization of sportsmen dedicated to the preservation of our American heritage and the right to keep and bear firearms.

Among the members from the 452d Air Mobility Wing and 163d Reconnaissance Wing who attended were Capt. Kel Thede and his wife, Nga; Master Sgt. Chris Huss and his wife, Carla; Tech. Sgt. Roberto Amador and his wife, Rose; Tech. Sgt. Zach Watson and wife, Denise; and Staff Sgt. Randy Bowen and his guest, Claudia Castro.

The line-up of speakers included Ronnie Barrett, founder and CEO of Barrett Firearms, NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre, and Pinal County, Arizona Sheriff Paul Babeu. The evening was an enjoyable one and the service members who attended were very appreciative of their hosts.

When asked why he accepted the offer from CRPA, Amador explained that he wanted to represent his wing and the United States Air Force. He observed that all the services were well represented including the Marines, Army, and Navy.

"My favorite part of the banquet was when Ron Barrett shared his personal story," said Amador. "Man, that guy was amazing to listen to! His effort, making rifles from his garage, and just the persistence he demonstrated in perusing his dream of developing the 50 caliber rifle blew me away."

As fantastic as the evening was for all the service members from March who attended, it was even more memorable for a few.

Thede, Huss, Bowen, and their guests enjoyed a special treat in the form of a limo ride to and from the banquet compliments of Bill Marquis, a CRPA member.

While it has become commonplace for many people from the general public to thank military members, it's always demonstrated in actions. CRPA definitely demonstrated their appreciation to the military. The service members who attended are grateful for the memorable evening CRPA provided them.