KENNER, La. – Heartfelt cheers filled Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans as families, friends and service members welcomed home Guardsmen with the 159th Force Support Squadron after a four-month deployment, Oct. 23.
“I am thrilled to welcome home these exceptional airmen,” said Maj. Elisa A. Blackwell, 159th FSS commander. “They played an integral part in the daily operations of force support squadron functional areas while deployed in a joint environment.”
Approximately 13 Air Guardsmen returned home from Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. While deployed, they were part of the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing’s Force Support Squadron, operating as the services element by providing Morale, Welfare and Recreational services to approximately 3,000 troops.
In addition to providing these services, several armen distinguished themselves by participating in the Honor Guard and were recognized for their outstanding services.
“It’s great to be home and see my family and friends. This was my first deployment, and I was honored to serve,” said Staff Sgt. Marcus T. Richards, fitness non-commissioned officer in charge.
“Mission complete,” said Tech. Sgt. Israel T. Doyle, food service operations non-commissioned officer in charge and troop commander for this deployment. “This was an absolutely great experience with our outstanding troops.”
The excitement and appreciation from family, friends and fellow Guardsmen was evident by the smiles, hugs and cheers that radiated throughout the crowd. "It is my sincere pleasure to welcome our airmen home from their deployment, in which they demonstrated pride and professionalism completing the mission. Thank all of you for your service,” said Col. Roy V. Qualls, 159th Fighter Wing commander.
“I am excited to have our Airmen home; they did an outstanding job representing the 159th Fighter Wing,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Randall J. Volpi.
Master Sgt. Monisha Jackson, 159th FSS special events coordinator, and the soldiers Angels organization surprised the Airmen by organizing and providing gift bags, signs and banners for the return.