HAMPTON, Va. - Standing in front of an F-22 Raptor, Air Force Lt. Gen. Harry “Bud” Wyatt III said as impressive as the 21st century fighter is to the defense of our country, “it pales in comparison to the importance of the people I am looking at right now.”
The director of the Air National Guard was here at Langley Air Force Base on Dec. 4 to honor 217 Airmen from the Virginia Air National Guard’s 192nd Fighter Wing during the wing’s first Hometown Hero Salute ceremony.
Wyatt said Airmen are the first of four critical “Pillars of Strength” that ensure mission accomplishment for the Air Guard.
The second pillar is family, because “none of us can do this job without the support of our family members,” he said.
The final two pillars are employers and community members. Wyatt noted communities are often overlooked, but they are equally as important to the endeavors of the Air National Guard.
The Air National Guard’s Hometown Heroes program recognizes eligible Airmen, who deployed for more than 30 consecutive days for Operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Hurricane Katrina and all other contingency operations.
“This is an extremely important event, it acknowledges the value and expertise of our Airmen,” Wyatt said.
In addition to recognizing the Airman, the Hometown Heroes Salute program acknowledges the contributions and sacrifices of their family members.
The Airman’s “center of influence,” who could be anyone supporting their service during a deployment, such as an employer or friend, is also presented with a medallion of appreciation.
As the last 192nd Airman received his award, Col. Bryan K. Turner, the wing commander, stepped forward to recognize a very important center of influence to the wing.
Venner “Ski” Milewski, the Veteran’s of Foreign War Post 824 commander, was presented a medallion of appreciation for the support his post has given to the 192nd Fighter Wing since its move from Byrd Field in Sandston to Langley Air Force Base in 2007.
Among the distinguished guests present to honor the awardees were: Virginia Secretary of Public Safety Marla Decker and Army Maj. Gen. Daniel E. Long Jr., the adjutant general of Virginia.
Following the ceremony, Wyatt participated in a holiday luncheon, discussed Total Force Integration with senior leaders from the 192nd and closed out the day with a town hall meeting.
During the town hall meeting, Wyatt discussed his vision for 2025. He said he believes the people will get us through as the Guard continues to improve and meet the challenges placed upon it.
Wyatt added that by focusing on what we do best, using our available resources, and eliminating the things that are non-essential, the Guard will continue to become more tactically and operationally proficient.