Paterson visits Soldiers in Afghanistan

Photo By Spc. Luke Austin | Gov. David Paterson shakes Spc. Alvarado's hand and presents him a coin at Camp Phoenix, Kabul, Afghanistan, during a visit to the troops. Alvarado was earned his citizenship today for his service to America. Paterson stopped in Camp Phoenix to visit troops out of the New York-based 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.  

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

12.23.2008

Story by Spc. Luke Austin 

33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team

By Spc. Luke S. Austin
33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team

CAMP PHOENIX, KABUL, Afghanistan – New York Gov. David Paterson, visited deployed New York National Guard troops from the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team today.

During his visit, Paterson assisted 27th IBCT Commander, Col. Brian K. Balfe, present awards, including a Purple Heart, and several Bronze Star Medals, Meritorious Service Medals, and Army Commendation and Achievement Medals to Soldiers of the 27th IBCT. Paterson also presented some Soldiers with their United States citizenship for service to their country.

Also here as part of the delegation to visit and show their support for the troops were Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.), Rep. Steve Israel (D-N.Y.), Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) and Rep. Ed Whitefield (R-Ky.). The New York Guardsmen are preparing to return home after a successful deployment as members of Combined Joint Task Force VII. The Guardsmen were responsible for training and mentoring Afghan national security forces of the Afghan national army and Afghan national police.

"I just want to thank... all the Troops. Some got awards today and some got their citizenship," Paterson said. "We miss them in the states."

Soldiers Patterson presented with citizenship for service were Spc. Marcin Pawezka and Spc. Alfredo Alvarado, both of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

• Date Taken: 12.23.2008
• Date Posted: 12.23.2008 15:37
• Story ID: 28069
• Location: KABUL, AF