104th Fighter Wing Welcomes Home 65 Members Published Oct. 4, 2008 By 011008 BARNES AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Massachusetts -- Westfield, MA (Saturday, October 4, 2008 at 3:30 p.m.)-The 104th Fighter Wing will welcome home 65 members who have returned home this year from overseas deployments. These members deployed globally in support of both Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. The Airmen recognized are from various units throughout the base: Security Forces Squadron, Civil Engineer Squadron, Logistic Readiness Squadron, Services Flight, Personnel Flight, Communications Flight, Operations Group and Medical Group. They deployed to the following countries: Iraq, Afghanistan, United Arab Emirates, Kosovo, Kuwait, Spain, Germany and Qatar. "We are so excited to have these warriors come home safely," said Col. Robert T. Brooks Jr., 104th Fighter Wing Commander. "During this ceremony the unit will also recognize the family members of these deployed Airman and present medals to the children, recognizing that "they served too" while their parents were away". "It is important that we recognize the families contributions," said Ms. Sandy Wakefield, Wing Family Program Coordinator. "While the Airmen are away, the families work hard to take care of many challenges and our members could not do their jobs without the love and support back home." # # # Media representatives who would like to attend should contact Capt. Mary Harrington by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3rd at pa.104FW@mabarn.ang.af.mil or 413-568-9151 x1069. On the day of the event, please arrive by 3 p.m. An opportunity for interview and photos will take place after the ceremony. Contact: Capt. Mary Harrington Public Affairs Officer 104th Fighter Wing 175 Falcon Drive Westfield, MA 01080 (413) 568-9151, x1069 Pa.104FW@mabarn.ang.af.mil