Memorial honors maintenance Airman Published May 14, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Jacob R. McCarthy Nellis AFB Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- More than 100 Airmen from across Nellis convened to honor the life of their fallen comrade during a heart-felt memorial service held at the base chapel May 14. Airman 1st Class Daniel L. Luhdorff, a 57th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons load crew member, passed away May 11 after a car accident. The memorial service began with the 99th Air Base Wing Honor Guard posting the colors. Chaplain, Capt. David Horton, gave the invocation, which was followed by words of praise and remembrance from Airman Luhdorff's supervisor and commander. Airman Luhdorff's supervisor, Staff Sgt. Hector G. Muniz, 57th AMXS weapons load crew chief, fought to hold back his tears during his words. "[Airman Luhdorff] was a great person. He was kind, funny and always fun to work with," said Sergeant Muniz. "He was always trustworthy. He will be in my heart forever." The 57th AMXS commander, Lt. Col. Victor Mora, was also on hand to pass on his condolences and words of support. "Here was an Airman who was just starting out," Colonel Mora said. "He loved the outdoors and spending time with friends. Not only did he choose to serve his country, he chose to serve when his country was at war. "Here was an Airman who was full of promise. Twenty years, three months and three days is too short a time to be on this earth. Airman Luhdorff had a bright future. But if there is something to learn from this, it's to realize how fragile and precious life is," Colonel Mora concluded. The service continued with Chaplain Horton offering words of reflection. "Let us mourn for his life. But do not mourn too much, for he is now without suffering," said the chaplain. The ceremony concluded when all in attendance joined their voices as one singing "Amazing Grace." Chaplain Horton and Colonel Mora offered their personal condolences to everyone as mourners exited the chapel. Airman Luhdorff was born on Clark AFB, Philippines, Feb. 8, 1988. He graduated from Stanhope Elmore High School in Millbrook, Ala. in 2006 before enlisting in the Air Force in March 2007. Airman Luhdorff graduated from Aircraft Armament Systems technical school at Sheppard AFB, Texas, before arriving at Nellis September 2007 to serve as an F-16 Fighting Falcon weapons load crew member. Airman Luhdorff's military awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
