The saying “brother and sister in arms” is a common phrase that has been used as a term of endearment in the military, signifying the close bond shared between service members.
The term may be a little more special to Rachel, Morgan, Kael and Ryan Terry, as these siblings have decided to serve together in the Colorado Air National Guard.
Among the band of siblings, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Ryan Terry was the first to raise his right hand and join the COANG, enlisting as a security forces specialist assigned to the 233rd Security Forces Squadron, Greeley Air National Guard Station, in 2017.
“I joined the Colorado Air National Guard to serve my state and country while pursuing a meaningful and challenging career,” Ryan recalled. “Security forces appealed to me because of its dynamic nature, combining law enforcement, airbase defense, and leadership opportunities. I wanted to contribute to something larger than myself while developing skills that would benefit both my military and civilian life.”
Throughout Ryan’s seven years of service, he has been a part of many stateside missions and career-broadening opportunities including: volunteering for a COVID-19 task force in Denver where he assisted in housing COVID-positive homeless individuals to protect public health; serving with the Mile High Honor Guard performing final military funeral honors for Air Force veterans and retirees; and, participating in Operation Arctic Blast where he supported the Denver community during extreme winter conditions by providing shelter, food, and medical assistance to over 350 individuals. Consequently, he was awarded the U.S. Army Achievement Medal for his efforts during Operation Arctic Blast.
In 2024, Rachel, Morgan, and Kael, inspired by their brother's service, decided to not only enlist in the COANG, but all three decided to join their brother in the security forces career field, serving at GANGS. Their decision to serve side-by-side was driven by their shared sense of duty and family bond.
“With my [siblings] in the same squadron, we could achieve great things,” Rachel said. “My family is the true anchor of my life. Regardless of hardship and struggle, we always find a way to lift each other up.”
“I'm excited to have my brother and sisters in the same squadron because we already have a strong bond, trust and communication that can translate well into our work environment,” Kael added. “Being in the same squadron will allow us to support each other through challenges. I believe our shared values and teamwork can positively impact the unit and help us all grow together and with fellow Airmen.”
“As a member of the military, I hope to accomplish many things, including becoming a leader that people can trust and follow,” Morgan said. “I think having family members in the same squadron will be beneficial. They will help encourage me when I am down and will bring out a competitive spirit in all of us, which will help us to strive to be better.”
This journey for the Terry siblings will serve as a great testament to the strength of family bonds and shared purpose. Their collective decision to enlist in the COANG exemplifies not only their commitment to serve their country but also their dedication to supporting one another through the challenges of military life.
Together, they are not just serving their state and country; they are forging a legacy of courage and camaraderie that will resonate for years to come.