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The Covington Veterans Foundation held its annual banquet on Thursday, Feb. 2o, at the Andalusia Adult Activity Center. The foundation’s purpose is to honor and preserve the legacy of our area’s veterans.

Straughn sophomore Greyson Hancock performed the National Anthem for the group.

CVF president Ben Bowden spoke about the past accomplishments of the group including the Veterans Tribute Banner Program, the Celebration of Heroes performances, and bringing the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to our area. This past year the organization awarded grants to city and county schools to allow students to honor local veterans and take field trips to places such as the U.S.S. Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Future plans for the organization include bringing the Global War on Terror Wall of Remembrance to Andalusia in the fall and adding a Veterans tribute mural to our city. Bowden noted that the foundation’s efforts are only made possible through the generous support of its sponsors.

Retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier  General Rick Boutwell, spoke to the audience about his experiences in the military, as well as his pride in being a veteran and the need to remember and assist those who have served as well as their families.

A native of Greenville, Boutwell attended Lurleen B.  Wallace Junior College where he played baseball. He received his bachelor’s degree from Troy State University and master’s degrees from Air Command and Staff College and the National War College.  Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree in 1991, Gen Boutwell was commissioned a lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.  He earned his wings at Vance Air Force Base, OK in 1993 and went on to fly the F-15, F-16, and F-22, acquiring more than 3,500 flying hours and 149 hours in combat.  In addition, he flew as a demonstration pilot for the elite U.S. Air Force “Thunderbirds.”

General Boutwell has served as a commander at the Squadron, Group, and Wing levels.  His final position was as the Vice Commander for the 15th Air Force, where he was responsible for 13 Wings, 800 aircraft, and more than 47,000 active duty and civilian members. In his current capacity as Chief of Staff, Gen Boutwell’s role is to oversee the daily operations of Faulkner, implement strategic initiatives, align operational processes, and mitigate operational risks while instilling institutional pride.

General Boutwell is married to the former Leslie Ann Fuller.  They have two daughters, Brooke and Hailey, sons-in-law Max and Ryan, and grandsons Abner and Rowan.

CVF board member Brenda Gouge was presented the foundation’s Distinguished Service Award for her efforts in implementing the school grant programs and creating and delivering thank-you gift bags to our county’s veterans in nursing homes.