FARGO, N.D. - More than 20 of nearly 30 North Dakota Air National Guard members deployed to Afghanistan will return home tonight. The airmen deployed in March with the Fargo-based 119th Security Forces Squadron. They're expected to return at 10:05 p.m. today at Hector International Airport in Fargo on American Airlines Flight 3117.
They've been providing a variety of security missions at Bagram Air Field, including perimeter defense and flight-line security as well as on Fly-Away Security Teams that provide protection for air crews, planes and cargo traveling in and out of the country. Others worked in the Joint Defense Operations Center or served at checkpoints, including the nation's busiest vehicle entry control point and the busiest pedestrian entry control point.
Master Sgt. Joshua Clarke, of Fargo, serves as the senior noncommissioned officer for the group, which includes 11 who previously deployed. Half of the group, though, is comprised of Airmen serving on their first enlistments in the National Guard.
Seven additional members of the squadron, including Clarke, are expected home in a couple of weeks.
Who: 119th Security Forces Squadron Airmen
What: Returning from Afghanistan on American Airlines Flight 3117
When: 10:05 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8
Where: Hector International Airport, 2801 32nd Ave. N.W., Fargo, N.D.
Media: No precoordination needed. Please check airline flight information for changes to arrival times. Amy Wieser Willson (701-412-6895) will be on site to assist, if needed.