Security forces members return home after Iraqi deployment
US Air Forces Europe News
Release Date: 7/29/2003
By Airman 1st Class Amaani Lyle 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (USAFENS) -- Just inside the base's front gate dozens of airmen, family members and well wishers waved flags and lined the sidewalks which lead to the drop off site for a busload of returning security forces troops.
The wing members left Spangdahlem Air Base at the end of March in support of the Army's 173rd Airborne Brigade stationed in Vicenza, Italy. The troops posted first at the cold, rainy and muddy surroundings of Bashur Airfield in northern Iraq before ending up in more than 100-degree heat at Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq.
"The airmen were involved in standard base defense, sector defense and resource protection," said Lt. Col. Larry Laird, 52nd Security Forces Squadron commander.
Col. Stephen Mueller, 52nd Fighter Wing commander, paid a visit to building 217 to commend the returning airmen and engaged in light-hearted banter with them.
"Our troops who deployed to Iraq performed duties that most security forces members train their whole careers for; however, rarely have the opportunity to put to the test in a real world contingency," said 1st Lt. Beverly Baker, 52nd SFS installation antiterrorism officer. "Carrying out duties in a bare base environment is demanding both mentally and physically and our troops stayed motivated and performed outstandingly."
The squadron commander agreed. "They've been in a hot zone and they're coming back with valor," Laird said. "There were flares and tracers being fired and they represented the wing extremely well."
Staff Sgt. Lissie Fulsom, 52nd SFS member, said unrest from Baath Party loyalists prompted the use of heavy weapons for defense by U.S. troops last week. "Sometimes it was scary, but for the most part we were able to stay safe," said Fulsom.
"When we get 'em all back safe it's a success -- it's great," said Master Sgt. John Blackburn, 52nd SFS operations superintendent.
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