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Spangdahlem says farewell to 90 years of service

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Luke Kitterman
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  Two civilians who hail from the same squadron and possess a combined total of 90 years of service to the U.S. Air Force retired at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, May 29, 2015.

Peter Kranz, 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron financial manager, and Walter Klein, 52nd CES furnishings management office manager, finished their careers after 46 and 44 years of service, respectively.

"Both of these men have so much pride in what they do," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Meeker, 52nd CES commander. "Walter's 44 years and Peter's 46 years reflect an amazing commitment to excellence and loyalty to Spangdahlem's mission."

Meeker participated in both retirement ceremonies by pinning Exemplary Civilian Service medals on both gentlemen and speaking on their accomplishments. Co-workers and friends presented gifts and shared memories that revealed the character of the two retirees.

"Commitment, passion and knowledge," said Guy Burrows, 52nd CES asset accountability element chief, about Kranz. "Peter embodied all of these traits. His qualities were contagious to be around and really raised our flight as a whole."

Members of Klein's audience also voiced their sentiments.

"Walter was a team player," said Ariel Laranang, 52nd CES housing manager. "He helped everyone he encountered during his time here. He knew the mission was taking care of our people and he did whatever it took to make that happen. We will definitely miss him."

Klein spent his entire 44-year career here while Kranz initially worked at Bitburg Air Base, Germany, until he transferred to Spangdahlem where he has spent the last 19 years. As the ceremonies came to an end, the two men shared their personal feelings about their time spent working for the U.S. Air Force.

"It is very emotional for me knowing I won't be coming in to work next week," Kranz said. "But it is now time for me to leave and I'm thankful for all the memories I've made and people I have met over the years."

Klein spoke about his team of co-workers and what they meant to him.

"I'm really going to miss my CES family," Klein said. "You guys have been my family for so long and I can't thank each of you enough."

It was evident the two men were greatly appreciated by all who attended and that their work positively affected everyone and everything around them.

"Walter, Peter, and our other long-time CES local national civilians have literally built this installation from the ground up," Meeker said. "Their true legacy is that Spangdahlem's new mission and bright future are a direct result of the amazing infrastructure, facilities, programs, and most importantly relationships that they've built here over the last 40-plus years."