166th AW Airmen return home safely

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Katherine Miller
  • 166th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Airmen assigned to the 166th Airlift Wing returned home on C-130H aircraft after being deployed for nearly three months to Southwest Asia in support of United States Central Command, Nov. 5, 7, 9 and 10, 2018 at New Castle Air National Guard Base, Del.

USCENTCOM is a warfighting Combatant Command which directs and enables military operations and activities with allies and partners to increase regional security and stability in support of enduring U.S. interests.

For many 166th AW Airmen, this was their first deployment.

“It was everything I was expecting,” said Tech. Sgt. Briana Walker, 166th Maintenance Squadron scheduling and documentation. “Both good and bad, but I enjoyed it and I’m happy to be home.”

After a safe return to the home station, Airmen exited the C-130H with smiles as they were greeted by their families, friends and wingmen with open arms and teary eyes after three months of separation.

“We’re so excited to have him home,” said, Annie, mother of Senior Airman Andrew Valladares. “We’re having a big party with friends and family tonight to welcome him home.”