Wyoming Air Guard deploys in support of Overseas Contingency Operations

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. John Galvin
  • 153rd Air lift Wing
Cheyenne,Wyo --  U.S. Air Force Airmen from 153rd Airlift Wing, Wyoming Air National Guard, recently deployed to Southwest Asia in support of The Global War on Terrorism and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Deployed members belong to various units to include, Operations, Logistics, Maintenance and the Medical Group. For some members this was their first deployment, but they looked forward to the deployment.

"I wanted a purpose in life and to make an impact," said Airman 1st Class Kristen Stohl, a crew chief.

For others it would be a new life experience.

"This will be my first time leaving the United States of America," said Airman 1st Class Nathan McCarthy, an avionics craftsman.

Many top-level officials attended the early morning event. Matt Mead, Wyoming governor; Army Maj. Gen. K. Luke Reiner, Wyoming adjutant general; and Air Force Col. Bradley A. Swanson, 153rd Airlift Wing commander, thanked the Airmen and their families for their volunteer service and urged them to stay safe and represent Wyoming
with pride.

"Combat airlift is our primary mission and we relentlessly train to be the best in our business," said Swanson. "Our Citizen Airmen are dedicated professionals and they stand ready to support the airlift needs of the United States and our allies."
The 153 AW deployed with members of the 130th Airlift Wing, from Charleston, West Virginia. Both units are replacing Minnesota ANG members. 

153 AW members have deployed numerous times since 9/11 in support of contingency operations abroad as well as state missions, which include flood assistance and fire fighting.

"I am extremely proud of the men and women of the 153rd as they have selflessly volunteered once again to support our missions," said Swanson.