For me, this statue holds a personal weight. My husband serves in the Air Defense Artillery branch, and through him, I’ve come to understand both the pride and the sacrifice tied to this mission. The First to Fire statue isn’t just a monument; it is a tribute to soldiers like him, and to the families who share in the service and the sacrifices that come with it.

What makes this statue moving is its humanity. The posture of the soldiers, their focus, and their teamwork capture the essence of what ADA represents: a community of soldiers united by vigilance and duty. It’s a branch that often works behind the scenes, but its impact is critical, protecting countless lives with every mission.

When I photographed this statue, I wanted to capture that story – the pride of the ADA community, the strength of its soldiers, and the legacy of protection it carries. For me, Guardian of the Skies is more than a visual image. It is a reminder of vigilance, sacrifice, and the enduring mission of the Air Defense Artillery.

This photograph serves as a lasting tribute – to the soldiers who watch the skies, to the families who support them, and to the heritage of a branch whose mission is as vital today as it has ever been.