Courtesy Photo | Service members stationed in Southwest Asia participate in retreat on the Fourth of...... read more read more
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By Capt. Teresa Sullivan
379th Air Expeditionary Wing
SOUTHWEST ASIA – Just a few miles off the Persian Gulf, the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing bustled with more than 8,000 service members hard at work, but also taking the time to honor America's independence.
For a moment, expeditionary Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and civilians felt like they were back home, where everyone enjoyed a change of routine.
Service members gathered early Wednesday morning to pay respect to the flag with a traditional reveille ceremony getting the day started. Shortly after the wing kicked off its Independence Triathlon where about 50 athletes swam, ran and biked to honor their freedom. Although it was business as usual where operations run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the 379th Expeditionary Services Squadron packed the day with a variety of events for everyone.
"The men and women of the 379th AEW are out here doing the job our nation has asked them to do – they are true patriots," said Brig. Gen. Charlie Lyon. "Although they're all busy at work here today, they will take time to celebrate freedom and take pride in their service. These Airmen are accomplishing great things that may or may not be reported back home, but I can tell you all, Americans should be proud of what their sons, daughters, mothers and fathers are doing."
Concluding the day, the wing assembled at the flagpole where the honor guard led warriors from all branches in retreat. Ending the night, the wing enjoyed a cookout complete with burgers, hot dogs, chips and cake before two bands took the stage to entertain the crowd making it possible for service members to have a memorable holiday.
"I couldn't be more proud of our Airmen," said the general. "It's important for everyone to celebrate the Fourth of July, to reflect on the freedoms of our nation – and to serve as a reminder that each and every individual life is important to America and the freedom we all enjoy."
The 379th AEW is comprised of men and women from all branches of the military along with civilians and coalition partners from Great Britain, Singapore and Australia. The wing is responsible for more than 100 combat and combat support aircraft that fly daily in support of operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.
| Date Taken: | 07.05.2007 |
| Date Posted: | 07.05.2007 08:39 |
| Story ID: | 11124 |
| Location: | (UNDISCLOSED LOCATION) |
| Web Views: | 156 |
| Downloads: | 138 |
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