13 SFS members deploy to Middle East

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Thirteen members of the 82nd Security Forces Squadron departed early morning May 10 for a week of training at Fort Bliss, Texas, followed by a six-month deployment to the Middle East. 

"Our mission is to defend the base which is not just limited to Sheppard," 82nd SFS Commander Maj. William Lowery said. "Whenever we're called upon, we do it." 

Tech. Sgt. Terrie Welch will lead them, Major Lowery said. 

"Sergeant Welch is a seasoned veteran and the team is in very good hands," he said. He also wanted the families to know "we'll make sure the team is taken care of." 

Sergeant Welch said it's always hard to leave family behind, but the mission comes first and foremost. 

"There may be hard times, but we'll make an impact on the war," she said. "It's worth it for the mission." 

Although families of the deployed were assured their loved ones would be looked after, it was still hard for Barbara Lawson, grandmother of Airman 1st Class Christopher Croft, to see him leave. 

"I'm worried about his well-being and coming back home to his wife and baby," she said. 

Airman Croft said he's going to miss his family, but he needs to take care of his mission overseas. 

"I'll do what I can and come home," he said. 

Other security forces members also felt the need to take care of the mission and fight terrorism. 

"I feel ready and I'll be even more prepared after I finish training at Fort Bliss" Airman 1st Class Jan Phillips said. 

She said she is proud to leave with the individuals in her team. 

"I already know them and I work with them. I know that these are some of the best wingmen I could possibly deploy with," Airman Phillips said. "I know that we will make an impact on the war."