The New Fairfield Veterans Association recently participated in a promotion ceremony for Juan Castro, a United States Air Force Reservist and New Fairfield resident. Because he was unable to pin-on the rank with his unit in person as they are located out of state, the New Fairfield Veterans Association graciously stepped up to honor Lt. Col. Castro at a small ceremony for close friends and family featuring the group’s Honor Guard, led by their Commander Ralph Langham.
The event included local professional singer Jennifer Porretta, a long-time Castro family friend, who performed a stunning rendition of the national anthem. Fellow officers Major Brian Huster and Captain Joel Webley were in attendance, with Lt. Col. Scott Roy delivering the Oath of Office. Major Sean Lee read the Attention to Order.
Lt. Col. Castro is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), and served almost 12 years active duty before becoming a reservist. He piloted the massive C-5 Galaxy aircraft before moving on to fly the Hawker 800 and Challenger jets. He is the Director of Operations for his reserve unit, which performs critical airspace safety inspections across the globe, and also holds a civilian job as a corporate jet pilot. As a former USAFA recruiter, he is passionate about helping young people discern their future options in the armed services.
The Castro family wishes to extend a special thanks to Commander Langham and the New Fairfield Veterans Association for their respectful and honorable participation in the promotion ceremony.
*photos courtesy of Thomas Buckley and April Moreira