Airey Remains Interred at Arlington

Airmen of all ranks, present and retired, family, and friends gathered May 28 to honor the first Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Paul Airey, as his remains were laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, along with those of his wife, Shirley, in section 34. Airey died March 11. Some 400 people attended the funeral service at nearby Ft. Myer, Va., before moving on to the burial site. The current top Air Force enlisted airman, CMSAF Rodney McKinley, said, “Paul Airey is an icon in the lives of airmen; he was a constant friend, true patriot, faithful public servant, dutiful husband, and a loving father.” In attendance were seven former CMSAFs. CMSAF No. 13, Jim Finch, said: “Not only was he a mentor to all airmen, but he especially made a point of spending time with all the chiefs who followed him in the position. He is the father of our enlisted corps.” (Air Force report by SSgt. J.G. Buzanowski)