Our time to remember Published July 2, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Chad Thompson 90th Space Wing Public Affairs F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- With Independence Day right around the corner, I felt this was a good time to address some issues by standing up for a tradition that I hold near and dear to my heart as a NCO in the United States Air Force and as an American. Time and again I have seen people run for the doors, speed up at the gate or blatantly just ignore the sound of reveille or retreat and I can't help but wonder why. Something I have noticed since arriving to Warren is that people don't know what to do during morning reveille's "To the Colors" or afternoon retreat, or maybe they just don't understand its history and importance. More importantly, what kind of impression are we sending to our younger Airmen and youth around base if they see us run for the door? They will see our actions and assume it is okay to act that way. Is that the impression we want to give? We should teach them the proper way and lead by example. Reveille and retreat are both traditions used by the military to pay respects to the flag and give a moment of silence for those who have fought and died for this country. While on base, all vehicles should come to a safe stop at the first note of reveille or retreat and occupants should remain quiet until the music ends. If you are outside while in uniform, you should stop, face the flag (or music if the flag isn't visible) and salute. While outside wearing civilian clothes you should also stop, stand at attention (for those of us that are military), remove your hat and place your right hand over your heart. We should have some pride in our heritage. We should stand up for what we believe in. We should try and do what we think is right, even if others don't believe in it. We all have a voice and we shouldn't be afraid to use it. There are Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines around the world fighting and dying for what we believe in. The very least we can do is take a few moments out of our day to reflect and appreciate what that means. So the next time reveille or retreat sounds, stop your vehicle or step outside, stand straight and tall, hold your salute tight and proud or hold your hand closer to your heart than it has ever been. Then allow the thoughts of all the men and women around the world who have fought and died, or who are still fighting, enter your mind for one second and do your best not to get tears in your eyes. Be proud to be an American and a part of the best Air Force in the world.