Joint Base Charleston selects “Hometown Hero” for Thunderbirds F-16 Flight

JB Charleston selects “Hometown Hero” for Thunderbirds F-16 flight

JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. – Joint Base Charleston named Teresa Chrapkiewicz as this year’s Hometown Hero, recognizing her remarkable character and significant contributions to the Charleston community.

Teresa Chrapkiewicz, a dedicated teacher, published author, Air Force veteran, community volunteer and the first female Navajo pilot, has been selected for this extraordinary opportunity.

The announcement was made by Col Michael Freeman, 628th Air Base Wing commander, who surprised Teresa at work in front of her colleagues, highlighting her exceptional service and dedication to the Lowcountry.

“Teresa stood out among hundreds of nominees for her selflessness and impact on the community, making her well-deserved of our Hometown Hero title.” Freeman said.

JB Charleston received 17 separate Hometown Hero nominations for Chrapkiewicz from fellow teachers, volunteers, and her students. Not only is Teresa a science teacher at Rise Academy, a secondary alternative education program, but she also dedicates her weekends to feeding and praying for the hungry through River Ministry, a program she co-founded with a close friend.

“My science teacher works very hard,” said one of Teresa’s students who submitted a nomination letter on her behalf. “Mrs. Chrapkiewicz speaks to me like a mother and a friend. She is wise and always willing to help me.”

Teresa actively supports the South Carolina Department of Children Advocacy and is involved with the Cass, Elias MacArthur Guardian Ad Litem program, supporting children in the Summerville court system.

She holds the distinction of being the first Navajo female pilot to obtain a pilot’s license and has authored a children’s book detailing her journey. Additionally, Teresa volunteers at local schools, sharing her book and encouraging the next generation to pursue their dreams, particularly aspiring aviators.

Furthermore, Teresa is a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served in the Reserve at Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard as a life support technician.

In January, JB Charleston sought nominations for a Hometown Hero and received more than 200 nominations to ride in the back seat of a Thunderbird F-16 on April 18, leading up to the “Heroes of Flight” Airshow on April 20-21. Nominees were required to be members of the Charleston community who have had a major impact locally.

“I’m so thankful for this opportunity. I’m thankful for my friends who nominated me and I give glory to my lord and savior, Jesus Christ, I wouldn’t have had my dreams come true without him.” Chrapkiewicz said.

Media will have the opportunity to cover the Hometown Hero flight on April 19, so please save the date! RSVPs are required for media to attend. Members of the media should contact Public Affairs via email at 628.abw.pa@us.af.mil to reserve their credentials.

Please inform us of your attendance no later than Monday, April 10, 2024. For security purposes, walk-up registration will not be accepted. We look forward to hosting you at the Heroes of Flight Airshow!

For more information on the Charleston Airshow, visit www.airshowcharleston.com. The Charleston Air Show gates will open at 9 a.m. and close before 4 p.m. on both days. Free parking passes and premium seating tickets are now available.