Expeditionary Wing celebrates Independence Day in Middle East

The Desert Eagle Team honor guard lowers the flag during reveille at the flag poles near Memorial Plaza in Coalition Compound. The base participated in several activities throughout the day to include; a triathalon, barbecue, darts, limbo and live entertainment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ashley Tyler)

The Desert Eagle Team, comprised of members fo the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps, stand at parade rest while the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Honor Guard lowers the flag during reveille at the flag poles near Memorial Plaza in Coalition Compound. The base participated in several activities throughout the day to include; a triathalon, barbecue, darts, limbo and live entertainment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ashley Tyler)

Expeditionary Wing celebrates Independence Day in Middle East

Published July 8, 2007
By Capt. Teresa Sullivan
379th Air Expeditionary Wing

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Just a few miles off the Persian Gulf, the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing bustled with more than 8,000 servicemembers hard at work, but also taking the time to honor America's Independence.

For a moment, expeditionary Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and civilians felt like they were back home, where everyone enjoyed a change of routine.

Service members gathered early Wednesday morning to pay respect the flag with a traditional reveille ceremony getting the day started. Shortly thereafter the wing kicked off their Independence Triathlon where about 50 athletes swam, ran and biked to honor their freedom. Although it was business as usual here where operations run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the 379th Expeditionary Services Squadron packed the day with a variety of events for everyone.

"The men and women of the 379th AEW are out here doing the job our nation has asked them to do - they are true patriots," said Brig. Gen. Charlie Lyon. "Although they're all busy at work here today, they will take time to celebrate freedom and take pride in their service. These Airmen are accomplishing great things that may or may not be reported back home, but I can tell you all Americans should be proud of what their sons, daughters, mothers and fathers are doing."

Concluding the day, the wing assembled at the flag pole where the honor guard led warriors from all branches in retreat. Ending the night the wing enjoyed a cookout complete with burgers, hot dogs, chips and cake before two bands took the stage to entertain the crowd making it possible for service members to have a memorable holiday.

"I couldn't be more proud of our Airmen," said the general. "It's important for everyone to celebrate the Fourth of July, to reflect on the freedoms of our nation - and to serve as a reminder that each and every individual life is important to America and the freedom we all enjoy."

The 379th AEW is comprised of men and women from all branches of the military along with civilians and coalition partners from Great Britain, Singapore and Australia. The wing is responsible for more than 100 combat and combat support aircraft that fly daily in support of operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.