Retired captain honored by sailors, Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  An Air Force captain, who was initially Navy enlisted, held his retirement ceremony June 12, 2014, and was honored by U.S. Navy Representatives.

Capt. Jason Scoggins, retired after more than 17 years of service through the Temporary Early Retirement Authority. His first nine years were spent as a sailor.

"We are gathered to say thank you to a good Airman and Shipmate," said retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael Wharton, who officiated the ceremony. "His many contributions, in their own unique way, have made our military a stronger and more capable force in our never-ending fight for peace."

U.S. Navy Honor Guard from the Navy Operational Support Center performed several military customs alongside Airmen, representing Scoggins' work with both services.

They carried out several U.S. Navy traditions such as 'ringing on the official party' and 'piping on the side,' a formality where Scoggins requested to go ashore for the final time.

Wharton presented Scoggins the Air Force Commendation Medal for his achievements at McConnell.

"Thanks to his many dedicated hours and personal initiative, he has helped to make the 344th Air Refueling Squadron the proud, professional organization it is today," said Wharton.

Since leaving the Navy to become an Air Force commissioned officer in 2006, Scoggins has flown more than 100 combat missions, delivering more than 2 million pounds of fuel to over 150 receivers. His work was not limited to the air and sea branches only.

He also spent four years working with the Marines in the Marine Aviation Logistics Element 24 as an avionics maintenance supervisor and one year working with the Army 2nd Infantry Division as an air mobility liaison officer.
Scoggins said that he is blessed to have his family by his side throughout his diverse military career and considers his service to be one of his greatest pleasures.

Before requesting to go ashore and retiring, Scoggins' friend and old boss, retired Lt. Col. Jim Wurzer, expressed his best wishes.

"As you move on to the next part of your life, I have no doubt that you will continue to be a patriot, honor your military heritage, continue to treasure your family and continue on being a good person."