PATRICK SPACE FORCE BASE, Fla. -- On April 21, 2023, the 45th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) carried out a cleanup effort along their newly adopted stretch of U.S. Highway 1. This initiative paid tribute to Staff Sgt. Andrew Holman, 45 LRS air traffic controller, who lost his life in a traffic incident on Nov. 11, 2021.
Recognizing the importance of a lasting tribute to Holman, the squadron explored various ways to preserve his legacy.
Before we adopted a highway, we honored him by establishing a roadside memorial," said Joe Morales, 45 LRS air traffic control specialist. “This tribute, a 15 inch round sign, helps remind drivers to remain safe on the highway.”
“Even before the highway was officially adopted, myself and a co-worker would go to the site at least once a month to mow, trim the sidewalk, and clean up trash,” said Morales. “By adopting the highway, the office felt like we could further honor Holman and give back to the community at the same time.”
The 45th LRS's dedication to the adopt-a-highway cleanup mirrors their commitment to military families, as they collaborate with the Family Assistance Representative (FAR) to support service members and their loved ones.
"It was a privilege to be chosen as the FAR, providing support to Holman's family during their time of sorrow," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Precious Smith, 45th LRS airfield manager. "My responsibilities included assisting with funeral arrangements and offering the necessary support to the family."
The FAR assists the surviving family with the array of support agencies involved in providing assistance following the death of a member while acting as the official link between the family and the Air Force.
“In the face of tragedy, it is comforting to witness the unwavering support within the Air Force community,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brittany Cottonaro, 45th LRS non-commissioned officer in charge of training
LRS plans to hold an adopt-a-highway cleanup quarterly as a reminder of the impact Holman had on the lives of those around him, and how deeply he is missed.