Feature Search

Team Andersen honors fallen Airman

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Chris Powell
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Team Andersen members were able to say a final goodbye to Airman 1st Class Portica Beckton during a memorial service here Sept. 20. 

Airman Beckton, who was a client support administrator assigned to the 36th Contracting Squadron, passed away when a vehicle she was riding in rolled over near Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo Sept. 9. 

During Airman Beckton's service, friends and co-workers spoke about the characteristics that magnetically drew people toward her. 

"She was very unselfish and was always willing to do what was needed to be done," said Senior Master Sgt. Robert Griffin, 36th CONS. "There was never a day where she thought of herself [first.]" 

According to her friends, Airman Beckton was as much fun at home as she was at work. 

"I'll always remember when she climbed in my suitcase to see if she could fit so she could go home with me," Airman 1st Class Dixie Tucker, 36th Logistics Readiness Squadron, said. "She was not only my roommate, but she was my best friend. I'll never forget her." 

Airman Beckton's commander Maj. Glenn Basso said other Airmen should take a moment to reflect on her sacrifice. 

"It is always a great tragedy when you have to memorialize someone as young as Portica Beckton," he said in his eulogy. "In the military, we often have to tell our colleagues goodbye too soon, but we will always remember Portica and her final journey to heaven." 

Airman Beckton was buried Sept. 27 in her hometown in Dallas.