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I read &#8220 Time to retire Tops In Blue” (letter, Feb. 3) and was floored by the comments.

The Air Force is constantly changing, and it seems these days that all things old are being shelved as unnecessary. Is there no pride left in the Air Force?

The Tops In Blue program has survived the past 56 years because people value the program. You may not see the value in it now with the global issues that are at hand. However, I see it differently. In America, everywhere you turn, we are becoming a society that no longer values the human connection.

These days individuals would rather play on their Xbox, shell out $60 to go to the movies, or surf the Internet. Gone are the days when you would bring cookies to the new neighbors or rake the leaves for the elderly without thought. It’s the “me mentality.” What benefits “me”? It’s no longer what can benefit others.

There is not another program like Tops In Blue in the world and never will be.

The individuals who are members of this elite organization give every ounce of themselves for the benefit of others. They live and breathe the Air Force values and cherish the human connection.

The value you do not see is in the unspoken moments.

It’s getting a hug when you need it the most, the chance to cry with someone so they are not alone, the holding of a veteran’s hand, or giving courage to that weary soldier who doesn’t think he can survive another day.

Tops In Blue members cherish these special moments because it’s what makes their job special. It’s not the show that makes them unique. It’s what they do with their hearts; it’s for those unspoken moments. Moments that cannot be bought.

Tech. Sgt. Katie Badowskiformer Tops in Blue staff memberJoint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

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