SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. – Airmen assigned to the Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing returned home Sept. 6 following an overseas deployment.
The Airmen initially deployed in support of operations in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility before later transitioning to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Their return marks the conclusion of months of federal service away from their families, employers and communities.
“Today is about welcoming our Airmen home and recognizing the extraordinary commitment they and their families have demonstrated throughout this deployment,” said Maj. Gen. Henry Harder Jr., the adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard. “Our Airmen answered when our nation called, and their families carried an equally important burden here at home. I am incredibly proud of all of them and grateful to everyone who stood behind them throughout their time away.”
Throughout the deployment, the Vermont National Guard and 158th Fighter Wing maintained resources for deployed members and their families through unit leadership, chaplain services, and Military and Family Readiness programs. Those efforts will continue through the reintegration process as Airmen transition back to their families, civilian careers and communities.
“For months, our Airmen remained focused on the mission while their families carried on at home,” said Col. Michael Blair, commander of the 158th Fighter Wing. “Their professionalism and resilience throughout this deployment have been remarkable. Our focus now is giving our Airmen and their families the time and space they need to reconnect and reintegrate.”
While many members of the 158th Fighter Wing live and work throughout Vermont and the surrounding region, others commute from communities across the country to serve with the Wing. That geographic reach means deployment’s impact extends well beyond the installation, touching families, civilian workplaces and communities across Vermont and the nation.
“This deployment asked a great deal of our Airmen and of those who stood behind them,” Harder said. “They answered the nation’s call without hesitation, adapted as the mission changed and continued to serve with professionalism and resolve. We are incredibly proud of what they represent, but today, more than anything, we are grateful to welcome them home.”