The 49th Fighter Wing: We are So Proud!

I know most of the men in Niles' shop. These men work for the 49th Fighter Wing at Holloman Air Force Base. Over the last two years I've got to know them personally and they have become part of our family. They helped us when we needed things for our babies. They've attended all birthday parties for myself and my children. They've been there through the good and the bad. Helping us move not only once, but twice and did not complain at all! Saying this, I know how great these people truly are. We've shared holidays and dinners, cookouts, and cocktails after a hard day. Many football games were watched in my living room with these men! They are truly loved.

This article was posted last week in the local news paper in Alamogordo New Mexico. Reading this I became filled with emotion. An overwhelming sense of pride came over me because I know these men and to see how they are doing everything they possibly can in a great time of need is empowering.

To all of the men in the "shop"; we are so proud of you!!! You guys are amazing and are doing a fantastic job! Be safe on your trip and make us proud!

I am so proud that my husband works for the 49th Fighter Wing and so proud to say I know these men that are going to make a difference in Haiti.

Visit: http://www.kfoxtv.com/news/22297747/detail.html for more details. Below is the article I was so proud to read.


Holloman Helping In Haiti

Phil Anaya-KFOX News Reporter
Posted: 7:18 pm MST January 20, 2010Updated: 9:23 pm MST January 20, 2010
Comment On This Story ››

LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- When thinking about the influx of supplies going to Haiti, you probably think of medical supplies, supplies for shelter or food, but don't forget about one of the most critical supplies of all, water. After a devastating earthquake rocked the country of Haiti, hundreds of thousands are dead, hundreds of thousands are injured and over 1 million are estimated to now be homeless. While it's not easy to survive without food, it's much harder to survive without water, clean water. And that's where the 49th fighter wing of Holloman Air Force base comes in, as they will soon be deploying from Alamogordo to Haiti taking assets with them from tents to generators to supply a camp of over 1,200 people. Once in Haiti, they will also be taking machines used to purify water.

“One unit alone can produce up to 30,000 gallons a day, which can be used to distribute to the Haitians in need as well as support U.S. forces,” said Lt. Col. Mark Shoviak.

With four units expected to make the trip, Holloman airmen will be able to produce a minimum of 120,000 gallons of clean water each day.

“It's a privilege to get a mission like this and go out and help the poor and make them live,” said Sgt. Emmanuel Lopez.

Even though the group from Holloman is aiding to those of another country, it's truly a humanitarian effort and easy for them to understand how bad the situation is.

“I told my airmen on the first day, day one when that earthquake happened, it's as if it happened in the town of Alamogordo and everybody was dead,” said Shoviak.

“A lot of things run through my mind,” said Lopez. “Being mentally ready is one.”

Copyright 2010 by KFOXTV.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.