An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Latest News

News | Nov. 11, 2018

DELAWARE WELCOMES HOME ARMY AND AIR GUARD MEMBERS ON VETERANS DAY WEEKEND

By Capt Bernie Kale Delaware National Guard Public Affairs

The Delaware National Guard and local community welcomed home nearly 150 Citizen Airmen and Soldiers during multiple homecoming events, Nov. 5-10, 2018.

Air Guard Airmen assigned to the 166th Airlift Wing, and Army Guard Soldiers assigned to Det. 1, C-Co, 126th Aviation, returned home after being deployed to Southwest Asia in support of United States Central Command.

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.

“The last 16 years of conflict have caused a revolving door of deployments and return ceremonies,” said Maj. Gen. Carol Timmons, Adjutant General for the DNG, at the homecoming ceremony for the DNG Army Aviators. “These 36 Soldiers deployed to dangerous, foreign operating areas in support of combat missions and saving lives.”

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.”