49th Security Forces Airmen deploy

  • Published
  • By Capt. Warren Comer
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AFB, NM --  The 49th Fighter Wing said farewell July 31 to approximately 30 Airmen from the 49th Security Forces Squadron who departed on a six month deployment to Kuwait where they will secure base facilities and airfields. 

Most of the Airmen have been on more than one deployment before, but all stressed that their support for Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom is their primary mission. 

"This will be my fourth deployment," said Staff Sergeant Nathan Grier, 49th SFS. "I'm just doing my job." 

Gathering around 3 a.m. outside the 49th SFS building at Holloman Air Force Base, Airmen spent time with their friends and family while their baggage was checked and counted in preparation for their trip. 

Saying goodbye to her two children and husband, Staff Sgt. Katherine Sikes prepared for her sixth deployment. She explained that this was her first deployment in support of OIF.
"My son is used to deployments, but my daughter hasn't quite grasped the concept (of deploying) yet," said Sergeant Sykes. "There is video conferencing, e-mails and I'm taking a digital camera to send a lot of photos home to keep in touch." 

The sergeant expressed that she enjoyed her job, but that deployments also carried their share of ups and downs. 

According to commanders, those remaining behind will support the Airmen and their families as they are focused on defending their country. 

"I'm very proud of all of my folks because they step up and do the mission ... that's just fantastic," said Maj. Carlton Bailey, 49th SFS commander. "We work with everyone ... the key to success is to keep Airmen and their families informed. That's not just between the families, but with the unit as well. We have monthly spouse meetings and any time someone has and issue, they come to us and we help them through it." 

Col. Mike McGee, 49th Fighter Wing vice commander, also came out to see the Airmen off. 

"We're extremely proud of the work they are about to go do. Their main job is going to help secure Kuwait International Airport, the main hub of everything going into the region," said the colonel. "They have a critically important job, we're extremely proud and they are fully prepared for what they about to embark on." 

The colonel also pointed out that the wing will roll out all base supporting agencies on Aug. 10 to help families understand all of the available programs. He said this event will likewise help those staying behind comprehend what the base is doing to support those deploying as part of Air Expeditionary Force 9/10. 

"This is all included in the great work our groups and squadrons do to ensure the care of those families," said Colonel McGee. "Those Airmen will have no doubt in their mind that their family is taken care of while they're fighting their country's battles."