Air Guard conducts Hometown Heroes Salute

Current, retired and former Airmen assigned to the Virginia Beach-based 203rd RED HORSE Squadron and the Sandston-based Virginia Air National Guard Headquarters were recognized during a Hometown Heroes Salute ceremony Aug. 7 at 9 a.m. at London Bridge Baptist Church in Virginia Beach. The event recognized Airmen who deployed for more than 30 consecutive days in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Noble Eagle and other peacekeeping operations across the globe since Sept. 11, 2001 Many of the Airmen being recognized have participated in multiple deployments. Each Airman being recognized receives a letter of appreciation and a commemorative coin enclosed in a cherry wood case. In addition to recognizing military members' service, family members will also be recognized for their sacrifices and service. Spouses will receive a Hometown Heroes Salute-engraved pen and pencil set, and their children will receive a set of personalized dog tags.