KC Reporter

Staff Sergeant Conner Walters of the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita will be honored as this week’s "Tribute to the Troops" honoree, presented by Crown Royal, during the Kansas City Chiefs’ home opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. The recognition is part of an ongoing initiative by the Chiefs to honor military service members at every home game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

SSgt. Walters joined the Air Force eight years ago, motivated by a desire to travel and secure a future for his family. In 2018, just one year after enlisting, he was deployed to Qatar. Reflecting on his deployment, SSgt. Walters said, "My deployment was challenging, but it strengthened my appreciation for family and the bonds formed with my co-workers. We became like family, and that experience taught me to value every moment at home."

Since returning to Kansas, SSgt. Walters has been responsible for maintaining some of the largest aircraft in the world at McConnell Air Force Base. He explained his duties: "I perform and train others in routine inspections and maintenance. We ensure the airworthiness and operational readiness for the Air Force's KC-46 Pegasus aircraft in addition to conducting repairs and troubleshooting any issues that arise during operations."

The Chiefs' "Tribute to the Troops" program aims to recognize service members such as SSgt. Walters for their dedication and work behind the scenes. As a lifelong fan of the team, SSgt. Walters expressed gratitude for being chosen: "Being recognized by the Kansas City Chiefs is an incredible honor," he said. "Being a Chiefs fan, it's amazing seeing the opportunities that have been presented to myself and other service members."