Honoring four decades of service Published Oct. 23, 2013 By Senior Airman Elizabeth Van Patten 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Maj. Gen. Wallace "Wade" Farris Jr., 22nd Air Force commander, was honored at his retirement ceremony held Oct. 5 at Hanger 5 for his 39 years of military service and leadership. The presiding officer was retired Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III, former Chief of Air Force Reserve, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington D.C., and commander, Air Force Reserve Command. "We sent you to a lot of places, some better than others," said Sherrard. "Thank you for your service, because it has been remarkable. Wade has stepped up to every assignment we have given him. For that, we will be forever indebted to you." Farris was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility, in combat and otherwise. Farris has held many commands both state-side and deployed. He was commander of both the 4th and 22nd numbered Air Forces as well as the director air, space and information operations at AFRC Headquarters. "A career is always a joint assignment, and Kim Farris, you have been invaluable to Wade, despite your pay not being very good at all!" said Sherrard. "To his family, thank you for allowing us to have him. There were times when you would have liked to have him, but we had him. There have been times you had him, but wished we had him!" Farris honored his wife, two children, and mother for their support throughout his career, and thanked those who have worked with him. "There are a lot of people out there that made me look good through the years - my family and friends, my staff and my Airmen," said Farris. "If you fear for the future, I suggest you come with me to meet some of our Airmen. Listen to them talk and see what they do. See how sharp they are. They are good, God-loving Americans. Those are the kind of people that made me look good and the reason I am here today."
