Aerial porters return home Published Aug. 30, 2013 By Senior Airman Elizabeth Van Patten 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- More than 20 Reservists were welcomed home Aug. 27 on Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Members of the 80th Aerial Port Squadron, 94th Airlift Wing returned from a six-month deployment from Southwest Asia, during which they supported Operation Enduring Freedom . "There is no doubt I'm proud of my folks!" said Maj. Kelly Bronson, 80th APS commander. "I have some of the best men and women in the wing and across the command. The 80th APS has a long history of outstanding performance. This latest deployment only reinforces the commitment level of the citizen airman in my unit." The aerial porters served a critical role in the delivery of cargo and personnel in and out of austere and unimproved landing zones. The 80th APS Port Dawgs moved 20,000 tons of cargo and 38,000 passengers over 1,500 sorties. This resulted in an impressive 127 days with no Aerial Port delays, according to Bronson. They also provided mobility training to civilians and military members of host countries, increasing the capabilities of those countries. Their teamwork moved 660 pallet positions of cargo; saving the theater command (CENTCOM) $1,848,000. Airmen were greeted by family members and friends who they had not seen since February. "On behalf of the men and women of the 80th APS, I would like to thank the families, especially the Key Spouses," said Bronson. "The outstanding efforts of our Key Spouses allowed my team to focus on their role down range. I couldn't be more thankful for their time and commitments to the unit." The Key Spouses were instrumental in sending care packages to deployers, taking care of families that were left behind, and organizing social gatherings for families. Returning Airmen have been encouraged to utilize the Yellow Ribbon Program. The Airman and Family Readiness Office can be contacted by phone at 678-655-5004. Oscar-nominated actor, Jeremy Renner, was also in attendance to offer his support to the returning Airmen. More media coverage of the homecoming can be accessed at: http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/story/23266434/25-reservists-return-home
