Part Of 911th Airlift Wing Staff Headed To Middle East

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – It was an emotional day for families at the 911th Airlift Wing base.

One third of the base's reservists are deploying to the Middle East. Families gathered Friday morning to say goodbye to their loved ones.

"This is the 911th's bread and butter," says Lt. Col. Dave Kraft, the airlift squadron commander. "The nation calls, and we answer."

More than 100 men and women are part of the deployment. They have been training for their mission for months.

"The commander in charge over there… needs airlift support," says Col. Jeff Vandootingh, the base's wing commander. "They will do whatever is needed, [go to] whatever hot spot that the commander in charge deems needs supplies and/or personnel. And there's always a chance that they'll be going into harm's way."

Base officials specifically match veterans with rookies to help minimize the risk. They say, their top priority is keeping the reservists safe.

But, the base also helps their families who are still at home. Members of the Key Spouse Program check in with the families once a month to be sure they're holding up. They also help them with household problems – everything from a leaking roof to a car that won't start.

"A lot of our calls from the family will be simple things. 'Our hot water heater broke, can you help out with that?'" says Lt. Col. Kraft.

The base puts families in touch with volunteers who will fix the problem. Many donate their time and services at no cost.

The reservists will be overseas for the next four months. It's the 11th time the reservists have been deployed since the September 11th attacks. Many bring small trinkets that remind them of home.

"There will probably be a few Terrible Towels in the bags for the Steelers' season," says Kraft.

Until they return, the base will focus on the families.

"It is great for us to be able to support them and look them in the eye and say, 'We appreciate their spouse's service to their country,'" he added.

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