As a solemn tribute to a military serviceman lost, the traditional 'Missing Man' formation is flown at air shows, funerals and other ceremonial events. The aerial maneuver entails the wingman spiraling off from the rest of the formation, leaving a hole where another should be. This year's memorial at the VNA Air Show November 14 th and 15 th will be performed by the AeroShell Aerobatic Team in honor of Roberto Hernandez and Johnathan O'Neill, soldiers of the U.S. Army who were killed while serving our country in Afghanistan.

The 'Missing Man' formation is considered a sincere display of respect and camaraderie among pilots. This tribute will be especially meaningful to one Martin County resident who was stationed in Afghanistan with the 549 th MP Company, the same company as Hernandez and O'Neill. Charles Moon, U.S. Army Specialist 4 th Class and son of Martin County Airport Director Mike Moon, was deployed overseas with the Company in April of 2008. Charles' friends and comrades gave the ultimate sacrifice for us sadly just a few short weeks before the Company completed their 15-month tour of duty.

Charles Moon is a 2007 graduate of Martin County High School where he participated in JROTC for all four years. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in August of 2007. He safely returned to Ft. Steward, Georgia on July 12, 2009 and continues to serve our country as a member of the U.S. Army. Charles and his father Mike Moon have attended and worked at many air shows over the years. Charles was hoping to make it to this year's VNA Air Show but is unable to attend due to military duties he must fulfill.