The Air Force core values of service before self, integrity first and excellence in all we do also serve as a foundation in my life. I believe God expects us to live our lives by these values.I am an American Airman.
I am a warrior.
I have answered my nation’s call.
I am an American Airman.
My mission is to fly, fight and win.
I am faithful to a proud heritage,
A tradition of honor,
And a legacy of valor.
I am an American Airman,
Guardian of freedom and justice,
My nation’s sword and shield,
Its sentry and avenger.
I defend my country with my life.
I am an American Airman:
Wingman, leader, warrior.
I will never leave an Airman behind,
I will never falter
And I will not fail.
For the past 36 years I have been in the military. I started out as a young enlisted member reaching the rank of sergeant and worked my way up to colonel. Over the years, I have moved between three branches of service including the Marine Corps, Army National Guard and now as a member of the 180th family in the Air National Guard. There have been many challenges and adversities along the way that really impacted my life. I was challenged with the loss of my father at age 24, discrimination, career advancement, college, exposed to all walks of life; drugs, alcohol, immoral lifestyles and the many challenges of patient care. It is my strong spiritual foundation that has kept the light shining on my path. I would not be the man I am today if it wasn’t for my mother leading our whole family to Jesus Christ. Her creed to us five children growing up is God first in your life, then comes family and third work.
The LINK appeared as an article in the 180th Fighter Wing publication The Stinger, but was removed by order of the Wing Commander, Col Craig R. Baker, because of a complaint by Michael “Mikey” Weinstein that it was “odious” and “offensive.” (See discussion here.) The sentences in which Col Marquinez mentions his faith are highlighted.
Walking the fine line between church and state, and discerning what is permissible or not under the Constitution, is difficult. The Wing Commander, who is a professional military man, not a constitutional lawyer, cannot be faulted for being unsure of what to do and deciding to “play it safe.” In retrospect, it might have been better to run it by a JAG officer for a legal opinion. At least then he could say he based his decision, right or wrong, on professional legal advice.