USAF Father-Son Unbreakable Connection
by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Lauren Cobin June 17,
2023
The bond between a father and son is a
unique and profound relationship that evolves and strengthens over
time - it becomes even more exceptional when intertwined with a
shared commitment to serve one's country.
Kory Capps, a
chaplain assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force
Base, and his son, Karter Capps, a defender assigned to the 66th
Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom Air Force Base, are a father and
son duo whose unwavering bond and dedication to the military
exemplify the essence of service, sacrifice, and love.
June 14, 2023 - U.S. Air Force Capt. Kory Capps, a chaplain assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing, and his son, Airman 1st Class Karter Capps, a defender assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom
Air Force Base, enjoying time together at MacDill AFB,
Florida. This father and son duo have an unwavering bond and
dedication to the military exemplifying the essence of
service, sacrifice, and love. (Image created by USA
Patriotism! from U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman
Lauren Cobin.)
|
From an early age, Karter looked up to his
father, Kory, as a role model. Kory's dedication to his work as a
chaplain and his continuous efforts to provide for his family left a
lasting impression on each of his four children.
“When I was
12, I remember my dad being promoted at the Chapel,” said the oldest
child, Karter. “I remember it felt like such a big deal. I was so
proud of him.”
Despite the demands of his career, Kory always made time to be
present for his children, instilling in them the values of hard work
and integrity.
“I didn’t always know what he was doing but I
always respected him,” Karter emphasized. “Even though he was so
busy, he always made time to take care of his family.”
Karter's decision to join the military, following in his father's
footsteps, deepened the bond between the two.
“For him to be
a military kid, and to have gone through what he did all throughout
his childhood, and still step in and say ‘yeah I want to serve’… I
just really respect him for that,” Kory said.
As Karter
embarked on his journey as an Airman, he continued to find new
respect and understanding of his father's work and the sacrifices he
has made.
“I now understand just how hard he works and what
it means to be in the United States military,” said Karter. “Ever
since joining, I’ve noticed that I can relate to my dad more and
more.”
Karter's own experiences in the military have enhanced
his admiration for his father's teachings and the values he
instilled.
“Parenting is the most rewarding and the most
challenging thing I’ve done in life for sure,” said Kory. “The whole
world changed when we had kids. It’s a bit of a mirror in your own
life.”
Kory taught his children the importance of humility,
treating others with kindness and compassion, and always striving to
be a person with whom others feel comfortable with.
“My dad
taught me to always stay humble, no matter what you’re doing in
life,” said Karter. “No matter what job you work – just work hard
and do not be boastful or too prideful.”
Being in the same
branch of the military as his father holds a deep sense of pride for
Karter. The connection they share through service creates a unique
bond that is rarely seen. It is a testament to the enduring legacy
of their family's dedication to the United States military.
“I feel like heritage is a big part of why I joined,” said Karter.
“I wouldn’t have joined the Air Force, or even the military in
general, if it wasn’t for my dad.”
For Kory, his experiences
as a father have shaped his leadership style, emphasizing the
importance of treating those under his command with the same care,
compassion and respect he would want for his own children.
“We are handing the Nation’s most precious assets - people’s sons
and daughters,” said Kory. “We can never lose that perspective
because that is as sacred of trust as it ever gets.”
“A
simple question I ask when mentoring leaders is, ‘would I trust you
with my son, would I trust you to lead him, take care of him, and
give him what he needs? Would I sleep well at night knowing that he
is under your charge?’” said Kory. “To me, that’s the trust that
every parent in America is giving us as military leaders.”
As
Karter progresses in his own military career, the bond between
father and son continues to grow. Karter's unwavering commitment,
discipline, and drive fill Kory with pride and admiration.
Their relationship has evolved to a deep friendship built on mutual
respect and shared experiences.
“He’s super driven,
disciplined and motivated - he blows me away,” said Kory. “He has
this fierce ability to protect and care deeply about those he loves.
It’s so cool seeing what he’s doing now because it fits so well, it
really fits. He’s going to do great.”
The father-son bond
between Kory and Karter Capps stands as a testament to the
unbreakable connection forged through service, sacrifice, and love.
“I am just so thankful all that he has done, and continues
to do for us as his family,” said Karter.
Their shared
military journey has brought them closer together, allowing them to
understand and appreciate each other on a profound level. As they
continue to navigate their paths within the military, their bond
serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family, heritage, and
the pursuit of a greater purpose.
Our Valiant Troops |
I Am The One |
Veterans |
Citizens Like Us
U.S. Air Force |
Air National Guard
|
U.S. Air Force Gifts |
U.S. Department
of Defense
|
|