Why I Wear the Uniform: A1C Patrick Hoerle

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Patrick Hoerle
  • 35th Fighter Wing Legal Office paralegal
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  I wear the uniform of the United States Air Force for many reasons. There is the great pride I feel knowing I defend the Constitution and contribute to keeping our country free. I also feel a sense of responsibility to this country, my family and others.

Freedom is not granted; it must be fought for every second of every day of every year or it will slip away like water between our fingers. Freedom, at its core, is why we all are here.
The system is not perfect and idealism will not create a perfect world, nor do I think that my individual efforts will wholeheartedly make the future a better place. I strive individually with the thought that there are others around me, also in uniform, who are also consciously moving forward, and what we accomplish individually might be eclipsed by our collective efforts.

A prosperous future is a compelling reason to fight and it should be known that when one wears the uniform of the U.S. Air Force, you are not only working for the betterment of mankind and America but also for your future, one by becoming the best person you can possibly be. It should be noted that we as human beings serve for the betterment of our children. To give our children the best opportunities available, we must be educated, physically fit, and obtain monetary stability. All these are perpetuated by the U.S. Air Force. We have purpose and that is something no one will ever be able to deny or protest. We are the envy of the world and while some may not agree with our methods or ideals, they cannot deny that we have a purpose and find it fulfilling.

To have a purpose is the most incredible reason to be alive and is the reason I wear the uniform.