Keoland - Ceremony Held For Hundreds Of Air National Guard Members

News Article

By Leland Steva

It was a chance to say thank you to the hundreds of South Dakota Air National Guard members heading overseas. The 114th Fighter Wing is deploying to South Korea to work missions with the United States and the Republic of Korea Air Force.

Hundreds pile into this hangar, all saying thanks to the brave men and women of the 114th Fighter Wing Mobilization Ceremony. 250 unit members are heading to South Korea.

Three are from one family. The McCarthy family from Madison has been taking flight for their country for decades and these three siblings are no different. They are deploying together for the second time.

"Still a family over here but we still live our separate lives but over there every single day, you work with them every single day, and you're part of each other's life every single day and you lean on each other for support," Staff Sargent Gerard McCarthy said.

For many, the first time deploying can be a scary time, but for Malorie McCarthy having the support from her brothers made it easier.

"It was amazing having both of my older brothers there. It was very comforting. You know, first deployments and deploying at all. It's extremely comforting," Malorie said.

This unit heading across the Pacific Ocean is well respected. Last year, they received the Spaatz Trophy, an award to the top overall Air National Guard flying unit.

"We just don't send anybody to go and do these jobs to keep peace in areas of turmoil. We send our best, and that's why you're being called on. I have no doubt that you are the very best in the nation to do do the job you're going to do," U.S. Representative Kristi Noem said.

Oldest brother Matt says even though he is part of a great group of Air National Guard Members, he will still keep an eye out for his siblings.

"Just fearing for their safety, even knowing we're in one of the safest places you can be deployed to," Matt said.

Three siblings, joining a family of 250, to help keep the peace worldwide.

The unit will be deploying sometime in the next week. They will be over seas for four months.

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