Hulman Field, Ind. -- The 181st IW hosted its first Hometown Heroes Salute Ceremony on Aug. 8th, 2010 in Terre Haute, honoring 237 Airmen and their families.
In August 2008, Gen. Craig R. McKinley, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, sanctioned the Air National Guard Hometown Heroes Salute recognition program. The purpose of this program is to celebrate and honor the significant contributions of the airmen, their families, communities, and those special supporters to the mission of the U S Air Force and the Air National Guard.
"I'm humbled by the impressive number of wing members who have made significant sacrifices for the defense of our country," said Lt. Col. Kip Clark, Commander of the 137th IS.
The Airmen received a framed letter from Gen. McKinley, which contained the Hometown Heroes Salute coin. The Airman's spouse or significant other received a rosewood pen and pencil set with the Hometown Heroes logo engraved on it and children received Hometown Heroes Salute dog tags.
"It's an honor to receive this award and I am completely humbled by this experience," said 1st Lt. John Mutnansky.
"The Air National Guard Hometown Heroes Salute ceremony recognized the outstanding contributions of our Airman who provided selfless service to our country since 9/11 by deploying for 30 days or more," said Col. Jeff Hauser, the 181st IW Commander. "We also recognized the contributions of their families that served beside them."