This month we salute Air National Guard Master Sergeant Barry L Boutwell, 42 of Findlay. Boutwell is the son of Byron and Retha Boutwell of Findlay. He and his wife Kelly have two sons, Ben and Kaden.
Boutwell completed Basic Training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas in 1991 and has served at Lahm Air National Guard Base in Mansfield, Ohio, Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, North Carolina and various locations in the Middle East. He serves as a Security Forces Supervisor.
Barry explains he has always been interested in the military since a child, his older brother served in Germany in the late 1960's. He decided to enlist because of the opportunities to travel and the benefits.
Boutwell advises anyone interested in enlisting in the Armed Forces "..research every branch of the military services to find the branch that is best for you and your goals in the military and civilian life… because it is going to be a big part of your life and life experiences, short term or long time careers".
"Just don't talk to the recruiters, talk to prior service members so you are well aware of what the military is about. Take advantage of the educational benefits offered".
"We live in the best country on this planet, which you will realize when you are in other countries and see the freedoms we have. We all, no matter what color, race, sex, age, are responsible for its security and welfare".
The Master Sergeant plans to continue in his military career and service to the United States and credits his children and family as his inspiration. He explains he serves to give them a secure future.
Boutwell stresses that "many in this country have forgotten what had happened on Sept. 11, 2001 and how many persons died just because where they were in this country. Terrorists attacked us in our own land and borders".
He goes on to say that "This war is and will not be a short term conflict as many persons, businesses and politicians want it to be for their various agendas. We need to eliminate the terrorists and threats at the locations where ever that may be." His wife Kelly is a member of the local military family support group "Troop Group" and he says "they do a great job supporting our Troops". Barry asks that people please support the members of the military and the military support groups
