KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan- Members of the 22nd Engineer Clearance Company “Hooligans” are departing Afghanistan, the place they have called home for the past year.
The return home comes as a welcome event as the soldiers are ready to get back to their loved ones.
“Everyone in the company is looking forward to reuniting with their family,” stated U.S. Army Capt Evan Wolf, 22nd ECC commander. “The cooler temperatures will also be appreciated,” Wolf joked.
The past 12 months proved to be a challenge for the soldiers of the 22nd ECC. After the loss of one soldier in action and the wounding of several others, the unit has overcome daunting obstacles in the battlefield, while holding onto the Hooligan spirit.
“You will be legendary,” exclaimed U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Buck, 14th Engineer Battalion commander. “You guys have done a remarkable job.”
Ending their time in Afghanistan, the unit closed with an end of tour award ceremony. The ceremony awarded soldiers for their courage and dedication to the mission of Operation Enduring Freedom.
“The soldiers of the 22nd should be commended for the things they have accomplished and for their performance during their deployment,” said U.S. Army Capt. Todd Falor, 1433rd ECC commander as he congratulated the 22nd Hooligans on what they achieved during their year-long deployment.
The 22nd ECC is replaced by the 1433rd ECC, who learned the skills necessary to follow in the 22nd footsteps.
Wolf advised the 1443rd ECC leaders, “It is important to stay tied in with the battle space owners” and to “provide yourself as much planning time as possible” before each mission.
The Hooligans’ year in country has passed, and their journey home has just begun. Their contributions to route clearance have helped create a safe passageway for the coalition forces and the Afghan people.
Date Taken: | 07.12.2012 |
Date Posted: | 07.13.2012 03:15 |
Story ID: | 91467 |
Location: | FORT LEWIS, WASHINGTON, US |
Hometown: | FORT LEWIS, WASHINGTON, US |
Web Views: | 618 |
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