AFGSC 'Never Quit' series continues to spread messages of resiliency Published July 20, 2012 By Air Force Global Strike Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The American300 Air Force Global Strike Command "Never Quit Series" continues to promote resiliency among Airmen with new perspectives and words from veterans and wounded warriors. Throughout the end of July, the "Never Quit" initiative will stop at Barksdale; Whiteman AFB, Mo.; and F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. "American300 is still important because the job of promoting resiliency among our Airmen is an ongoing process," said Chief Master Sgt. Brian Hornback, command chief, AFGSC. "This is a key quality of life program, and our command is committed to ensuring our Airmen are resilient, which in turn helps ensure our mission is successfully accomplished." "The Gunners" tour is scheduled to visit Barksdale July 22 and Whiteman July 25, where Sal 'Gonzo' Gonzalez and Daniel Gilyeat, former U.S. Marine Corps heavy machine gun operators who lost limbs as a result of roadside bombs in Iraq will engage with Airmen. Coming home from Iraq wounded warriors, both men have words to share about remaining resilient through their struggles. USMC (ret.) Col. John Bates, a Purple Heart Medal recipient and former parachutist who participated in the Vietnam War and Operation Iraqi Freedom, is scheduled to speak at Barksdale, Whiteman and F.E. Warren from July 22 to 27 as part of the "Behind the Chute" tour. Bates was wounded three times in Vietnam, which ultimately lead to his medical discharge. But Bates' goal was to rejoin the Marines, so after more than five attempts to rejoin he was finally accepted. World Champion Bareback bull rider Kaycee Feild, currently ranked 31 in the world, will also join the Mighty Ninety at F.E. Warren July 25 to 27. From July 22 to 23, Barksdale is also scheduled to host the five-member "Warrior Spirit Band," the first all-wounded warrior band. "Individuals whose lives have been adversely affected by circumstances are interacting with our Airmen, who themselves face tough duty and remote locations," said Lt. Col. Casey Sanders, AFGSC Personnel Directorate, Force Development Division chief. "This helps instill coping mechanisms to meet life's challenges by promoting resiliency among our Airmen." "Bottom line, we're addressing concerning statistics of increased risk behaviors and actions among our Airmen," said Hornback. "The 'Never Quit' series is designed to create a forum between resilient individuals who have a story to tell and our Airmen in hopes that different perspectives provide food for thought of how to overcome challenges or adversity."