Photo By Staff Sgt. Jason Wilson | Members of the 155th Air Refueling salute while in formation during the “Welcome...... read more read more
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Airmen, family members and friends gathered, Sept. 7, 2019, at the Nebraska National Guard air base in Lincoln, Nebraska, to welcome home the many members of the 155th Air Refueling Wing who deployed in support of the war efforts over the past two years.
“For the last two years we have focused on lethality and readiness,” said Col. Robert Hargens, commander of the 155th ARW. “Today we celebrate the culmination of that effort. The deployment of over a third of the wing, 336 Airmen, 12 countries and multiple theatres.”
Hargens praised the Airmen for the dedication and efforts over the past two years.
“You have served as ambassadors; the best this nation has to offer. You have inspired hope for a better world.”
As Hargens addressed those who deployed this past year, he commented on the importance of the support from both loved ones and wingmen here at home.
“To our family members, we know there were a lot of challenges while your loved ones are deployed,” said Hargens. “Thank you for your tremendous sacrifice and know that you, too, played a critical role in the accomplishment of our mission. To the Airmen that remained in garrison, your service has been no less critical in our success.”
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer gave praise to not only the Airmen but also their families.
“The men and women of this wing have done their duty with honor, commitment and dedication,” said Fischer. “It is always a pleasure to be here with the men and women that served and with the families that served as well. It is not an easy job.”
Senior Airman Richard Bushnell, a sortie generation crew chief with the 155th Maintenance Squadron who returned from deployment after 132 days, expressed gratitude for the ceremony. “It is appreciated,” said Bushnell. “People come out and show their appreciation, they tell us how they appreciate and support what we are doing. It is a day to day job and we know what we signed up for.”
Senior Airman Stephan Martin, an air transportation personnel with the 155th Logistic Readiness Squadron, returned home from his first deployment. He spoke with a huge smile on his face over the turnout for the “Welcome Home” ceremony.
“It feels really good having members of Congress and their representatives come to Nebraska to see all the men and women in the National Guard,” said Martin. “They are giving you that honor and it feels really good.”
| Date Taken: | 09.07.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 09.09.2019 18:24 |
| Story ID: | 338887 |
| Location: | LINCOLN, NE, US |
| Web Views: | 175 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
This work, Deployed Airmen Honored at Welcome Home Ceremony, by SSgt Jason Wilson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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