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77th FS honors previous commander, celebrates history

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Noelle Caldwell
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 77th Fighter Squadron here dedicated their squadron building to Col. Robert P. Montgomery and celebrated their proud history Feb. 2.

Lt. Col. Craig S. Leavitt, 77th FS commander, along with past Gamblers, 1st Lt. (Ret.) Walter Umla and Maj. (Ret.) Jim Herbert, unveiled a plaque with Colonel Montgomery's name on it, to be posted next to the front door entrance.

Colonel Montgomery served as the 77th FS Commander at King's Cliffe, England, during World War II.

It is fitting to dedicate the 77th FS in Colonel Montgomery's honor considering his contributions during an important part of Gambler history, said Capt. Todd Adams, 77th FS flight safety officer.

His leadership steered the Gamblers through a period in time that would come to define the squadron and an entire generation of Americans, he said

"The dedication of leaders like Colonel Montgomery led us to victory in WWII and shaped America into the power it is today," he said.

Before the dedication ceremony, the squadron hosted their annual Gambler Champagne Brunch at the Carolina Skies Club.

The brunch is a tradition that dates back to 1953 and is a way for the Gamblers, past and present, to salute their fighter heritage from World War II.

Conversation, smiles and hearty laughter filled the club as nearly 70 Gamblers and their families watched a barrage of pictures rotate on a slide show.

Gambler pilots reunited, signing their names on tablecloths and sporting something red as a historical tribute to their past, in addition to showcasing current Gambler pilots.

"We're a proud squadron and we always remember to honor those that came before us," said 1st Lt. Todd Zielinski, a new member to the Gamblers.

A former Gambler, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Dave Skilling, stood festively dressed in a bright cherry red Gambler polo.

He said the 77th FS was the first operational squadron for him right out of pilot training.

"I was glad I had that time with 77th FS. It helped me to continue as a fighter pilot so I could survive in Vietnam," Mr. Skilling said.

This year marks the 77th anniversary since the first aircraft flew for the 77th FS.

"Once a Gambler, always a Gambler," Zielinski said.