From the frontlines to MetLife Stadium: 514th Security Forces chief recognized as Jets Veteran of the Game

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — "JETS NATION, PLEASE WELCOME TO THE FIELD TONIGHT'S VETTIX VETERAN OF THE GAME: UNITED STATES AIR FORCE CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT DAVID TINGLE!" The announcer’s voice boomed across MetLife Stadium, echoing through a crowd of tens of thousands of cheering New York Jets and Green Bay Packers fans. For Chief Master Sgt. David Tingle, senior enlisted leader of the 514th Security Forces Squadron, walking onto the field was more than just a moment of personal recognition. It was the culmination of a 30-year military career defined by sacrifice, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the nation.

"It's really a great honor," Tingle said. "Getting closer to my retirement, it’s really nice to be out here as the veteran of the game. The excitement in the stadium was unbelievable."

Tingle’s path to the NFL field began with a monthslong plan orchestrated by his wife, Megan, who secretly coordinated with Steve Castleton, the Jets’ military liaison. To pull off the surprise, Castleton set up a video call with the American Legion Father and Son Post 435 Edison where Tingle serves as commander. The cover story was simple: Castleton wanted to donate Jets tickets to the post's local veterans.

But once the virtual meeting started, Castleton threw a curveball. He began reading aloud the distinguished service record of an anonymous Airman — detailing 30 years of service, nine deployments, and a long list of medals, including the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Air and Space Commendation Medal with a Combat Device.

Then Castleton looked at the screen and asked, "Hey Dave, do you know this guy?"

"He started talking and reading... 'He's been in the military this long, he's got this many deployments' and it started to sound really familiar," Tingle recalled with a laugh. "Then, I realized he was talking about me. It was a total surprise."

Tingle transitioned from active duty to the 514th Airlift Wing, known as the "Freedom Wing," at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, in April 2001. Since then, the 514th SFS has become more than just a unit to him; it has become a second family.

"Once you join Security Forces, you’ll see there’s a long lineage," Tingle said, noting the deep bonds within the squadron and highlighting veteran members like [Name of fellow SFS member], who has served with the unit for 42 years. "That's family, and there is nowhere else I would rather serve. Every time I come home from a deployment and come back to that unit, it really means a lot."

As a Citizen Airman, Tingle works full-time as a Lieutenant in the Edison Police Department, in Edison, N.J. His dual career represents the unique sacrifice of Traditional Reservists who must continuously balance their civilian jobs, family lives, and military readiness and participation. This balance is critical to the Air Force Reserve's mission of providing rapid, combat-ready forces to support national security objectives.

Tingle dedicates much of his personal time to educating civilian employers and the community about the vital role Reservists play.

"There's a sacrifice when it comes to being a Citizen Airman," Tingle explained. "You have a life outside the military, you're not full-time. I try to build those relationships and volunteer my time to educate people on what a Citizen Airman is, and to understand the importance and the role that the Reserve plays in making our nation and our Air Force the greatest power out there."

Reflecting on his career, Tingle emphasized that his service would not have been possible without his support system at home.

"I would start with my wife, Megan," Tingle said. "She’s really been the rock behind me. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. The kids are always supportive, and I have to thank my parents for allowing me to join the military when I was 17."

He also expressed deep gratitude to the Jets organization, which has supported his family throughout his nine deployments, including former Jets center Nick Mangold once volunteering to play Santa for his children. Though Tingle grew up a Dallas Cowboys fan, the team's continuous support of his family has officially won him over.

"How could you not be a fan of the Jets?" Tingle said. "Let's go, let's get a win today."

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