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Home for the holidays; base celebrates Airmen who deployed overseas

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Lou Burton
  • 178th Public Affairs
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio --  Base populace and local officials celebrated over 20 Airmen that deployed during the past year from the 178th Wing at the Springfield Air National Guard Base, Dec. 7.

"As Airmen, we miss important moments like holidays, birthdays and recitals," said Maj.Gen. Mark  Bartman, Ohio Air National Guard Assistant Adjutant General. "I know your families are glad to have you home for the holidays."

The honorees represented 178th Security Forces, Civil Engineering Squadron, Logistics Readiness Squadron, Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, and Operations Group.

Each honoree was thanked by the distinguished guests and received various ribbons, medals and awards for their service.

"The state of Ohio is behind you," said Bob Hackett, state representative from Ohio's 74th house district. "Thank you for the sacrifice you and your families have made."

Family and friends joined the members for the ceremony to celebrate their homecoming. The Airmen retuning, in turn celebrated those who supported them during their deployments.

Yet while the ceremony highlighted the sacrifice each member made to their country in service, the core value of service before self echoed through their responses.

"It is great to be back," said Staff Sgt. Wesley Cooper, 178th Security Forces. "I missed my wife a lot, but I am glad I was able to serve."