Laughlin Airmen volunteer at memorial bull riding event

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Charlie Miller
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - --  Twenty-three Laughlin Airmen volunteered to help raise money in their off-duty time in memory of one of their own at a bull riding event held at the Val Verde County Fairgrounds, March 15. 

The Pepe Hernandez Memorial Bull Riding Bash was organized by friends of the late Airman Pepe Hernandez, a Del Rio native, to raise money for his children's future college expenses. 

"We do this for Pepe's daughters, Vanessa and Samantha and for his widow, Julissa," said Diane Gallegos, event coordinator. All money raised beyond the costs to promote the event will go directly to the girls' scholarship funds. Vanessa is 12 years old and Samantha, who was born after her father's death, is eight. 

None of the Laughlin volunteers ever met Airman Hernandez but it didn't matter. The cause was what counted. 

"I thought this would be a good thing to do, to volunteer for," said Staff Sgt. Mike Nadzieja, 47th Installation Support Squadron. "Today is actually my birthday, I'm 26 and I brought my wife and daughter along with me for a celebration at the rodeo." 

Airman Hernandez rode bulls many times at the fairgrounds where his memorial event is held every year. He was killed in May of 2000 at a bull riding event in Kissimmee, Fla. The Airman was stationed at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. at the time of his death. 

"Pepe had a very generous smile, he was just the sweetest person," said Gallegos. "He was an amazing father and husband and a great friend." 

The Laughlin Air Force Base Honor Guard presented the colors before the memorial event started, marching into the center of the arena. They were surrounded by 59 bull riders, an all-girl six-horse precision drill riding team, arena officials and rodeo clowns. 

The volunteers served at the front gate selling tickets to the general public, directing traffic, collecting tickets at the arena's entrance, selling beverages and beverage tickets to the bull riding fans and answering general questions. 

"I've been to a rodeo before and felt that volunteering here would be something worthwhile and fun," said Airman 1st Class Christina Gallagher, 47th Contracting Squadron.