ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. – At the heart of the U.S. Air Force, the concept of being a good wingman is more than just a mantra; it’s the fabric that binds Airmen together. This ethos is exemplified by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Sydney Cox, a dedicated medic turned wing development advisor with the 28th Force Support Squadron at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. Her story of unwavering commitment and friendship captures the spirit of South Dakota’s values: community, integrity, and resilience.
In June 2025, Cox faced the ultimate test of her wingman-ship when her long-time friend Senior Master Sgt. Troy Hall II, stationed with the First Air Force, Detachment 2 in North Bay, Ontario, was struck by a serious illness. The two first crossed paths in 2011 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, where they connected as part of the dorm council. Their bond was not only professional but personal, built on mutual support, friendly competition, and an unwavering vow to look out for one another.
As a cornerstone of Ellsworth Air Force Base, Cox has made a lasting impact on the South Dakota community through her commitment to service. Her journey, rooted in the small-town ethos of camaraderie and support, is one that resonates with the people of South Dakota, known for their neighborly spirit and dedication to the well-being of others.
In February of 2025, while congratulating Hall on his promotion to Senior Master Sgt., Cox was met with the devastating news of his declining health due to Stage 4 cancer. Without hesitation, Cox sprang into action, leveraging her extensive experience and connections amassed over her 14 ½-year career. She coordinated with Hall’s leadership to arrange a medevac to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, ensuring he received the cutting-edge care he needed to fight the disease.
The bond between Cox and Hall transcended the miles and the years, underscoring a deeper connection that defies geographical boundaries. “You don’t have to be stationed together to care for each other,” Cox reflected. “You never know when you will need someone, even if they are thousands of miles away.”
Despite the best efforts and advanced medical treatments at Walter Reed, Hall passed away in June 2025. The loss was a profound one for Cox, symbolizing both a personal tragedy and a professional setback. “Losing Troy hurt,” she said. “He was the kind of friend and wingman I’ve always strived to be.”
The actions Cox took during this difficult time did not go unnoticed. U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Shania Porter, the 28th Force Support Squadron’s Senior Enlisted Leader, praised her leadership and selflessness. “Cox is selfless, takes initiative, leads boldly, and most importantly, she is influential across the installation and the Air Force. She went above and beyond the call of duty to support Hall and his family, setting aside her own emotions to ensure she represented the Air Force with dignity and honor.”
Cox’s dedication is a testament to the strength and integrity of the Air Force and, by extension, South Dakota’s values. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and reminds all Airmen to not only act in support of the mission but also to embody the spirit of never leaving an Airman behind.
Even now, Cox remains dedicated to the goal she and Hall shared—to ascend to the rank of Chief Master Sgt. “We always said we were going to be chiefs together,” said Cox. “Now I carry that goal for the both of us. It’s going to be chief for Troy.”
As Cox continues her service at Ellsworth Air Force Base, her efforts underscore the strength of the community that South Dakota fiercely prides itself on. Her story is one of compassion, determination, and the enduring bond of friendship, qualities that mirror the heartland’s essence.
For those wishing to learn more about the incredible community and involvement of Ellsworth Air Force Base and the Air Force, additional resources and contact information can be found by visiting the base’s official contact page.