Three cheers for Sonny

By Staff
May 28, 2004
American veterans have no greater friend and Mississippi has no greater goodwill ambassador than the retired congressman from Meridian that most people know simply as "Sonny." We're speaking, of course, of G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, the veteran's champion whose name and reputation are legendary.
On Monday, at a National Guard field in Rankin County, his name was unveiled in another venue, one that guarantees global attention. A C-17 Globemaster, the eighth such cargo plane given to the Mississippi Air National Guard's 172nd Airlift Wing, was dubbed "The Spirit of G.V. Sonny Montgomery."
Montgomery, now 83, pulled a cord to unveil his name written down the side of the huge airplane, which is expected to be in service for decades. Given the fact that Sonny is credited for the C-17s coming to Mississippi, the tribute was very appropriate. "This is a wonderful, big event for me,'' Montgomery said as he stood in front of the C-17. It's great to see this magnificent aircraft with my name on it. It's a humbling experience, but I like it.''
The C-17 aircraft is 174 feet long and has a wingspan of nearly 170 feet. It can carry up to 585,000 pounds, ferrying people and equipment around the world. As Sen. Thad Cochran put it, Sonny is a "role model worthy to emulate,'' Cochran said. What a day it is for Mississippi. It's a day we can all rejoice in." Other dignitaries expressed similar sentiments.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi said there hasn't been a more beloved, respected and dedicated person for service members and veterans in Congress than Montgomery.
The strength of endurance of the Air Force's next generation, the C-17 transport before us reflects the greatness of its namesake … and statesman who will proudly take to the skies to deliver the goods of both war and peace,'' he said.
Well said.