The following is a press release from the National Guard
Major Gen. Thaddeus J. Martin, the Adjutant General and Commander of the Connecticut National Guard, announces that approximately 25 Airmen from the 103rd Security Forces Squadron will return to Connecticut today at 7:30 p.m. and arrive at the Bradley Air National Guard base in East Granby.
Members of the 103rd Security Forces Squadron departed Connecticut in July 2011 and were assigned to the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at the Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
The unit performed duties ranging from Improved Explosive Device (IED) screening of vehicles entering the installation to command and control for the Joint Defense Operations Center. Additionally, members provided internal perimeter and counter insurgency operations while providing 24/7 response capabilities to mitigate direct and indirect attacks directed toward peacekeeping forces on the installation.
Governor Dannel P. Malloy visited the airmen last month in Afghanistan. “It is a great day when I can welcome our troops back home,” said Governor Malloy. “What an incredible honor and privilege it was to visit these brave men and women in Afghanistan, and I am proud to be here as they arrive back to Connecticut. We are grateful for their remarkable courage and their service to the state and the nation.”
Currently the Connecticut National Guard has approximately 200 Soldiers and Airmen deployed in support of the Global War on Terror.
This was the third deployment for 103rd Security Forces Squadron.
Directions to the 103rd Airlift Wing, East Granby:
From Interstate 91, take exit 40 "Route 20 West East Granby Exit," turn right at the first traffic light onto Bradley Park Road, follow the road to the end and turn right at stop sign onto Nicholson Road, proceed straight ahead toward the main gate and follow directions from uniformed personnel.
