ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. (DVIDS) — A friendship that began early in two Airmen’s careers became a lasting example of loyalty, support and service when it mattered most.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Sydney Cox, 28th Force Support Squadron wing development advisor at Ellsworth Air Force Base, first met Senior Master Sgt. Troy Hall II in 2011 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Serving together on the dorm council, the two quickly formed a close bond rooted in encouragement, friendly competition and a shared commitment to always look out for one another.

Over the years, their careers took them to different duty stations and deployments around the world, but their connection never faded. They stayed in touch, continuing to support each other from afar while both working toward a shared goal of becoming Chief Master Sergeants.

“You don’t have to be stationed together to care for each other,” Cox said. “You never know when you will need someone, even if they are thousands of miles away.”

In February 2025, Cox reached out to Hall to congratulate him on his selection for promotion to Senior Master Sgt. Instead, she learned he was seriously ill and in need of advanced medical care.

Cox immediately stepped in to help. Drawing on her 14 and a half years of service as a medic, she leveraged her network of medical professionals and worked closely with Hall’s leadership to coordinate a medical evacuation to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center so he could receive the care he needed.

Leaders said her actions reflected a deep sense of duty and compassion. Chief Master Sgt. Shania Porter, 28th FSS senior enlisted leader, said Cox set aside her own emotions to support Hall and his family while representing the Air Force with dignity and honor.

After months of treatment, Hall died in June 2025 from Stage 4 cancer.

“Losing Troy hurt,” Cox said. “He was the kind of friend and wingman I’ve always strived to be.”

For Cox, the loss was both personal and profound. The friend who had stood beside her through years of service and shared ambitions was gone, leaving behind a legacy of strength, loyalty and unwavering support.

“We always said we were going to be chiefs together,” she said. “Now I carry that goal for the both of us. It’s going to be chief for Troy.”

Their story reflects the bond that defines military service, where friendships are forged in commitment and carried through every challenge, even in the face of loss.