R. Max Grindstaff, Former Command Chief, 438th AEW

I was Tara’s Command Chief in Kabul from May 2010 – 2011, and I got to know Tara fairly well. I very much enjoyed my time with her and I don’t need to remind you what a bright light she was, and how absolutely great a person and leader she was.

I walked out of the Afghan HQ building on April 27th at about 9:45am, and ran into Tara as she was walking in – same wonderful smile as always. She is missed by so many fellow Airmen. I have no doubt that pales to the loss of a daughter. I have three daughters and can only scratch the surface of your pain, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t add my voice to the choir of folks who loved working with her.

She touched many people – I’m glad to have been one of them.

R. Max Grindstaff,
Former Command Chief, 438th AEW