News

Patriotism soars at 8th Annual Military Family Support Day

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Moody
  • 446th Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
LACEY, Wash., --  An outpouring of support for military families was felt by everyone during the 8th Annual Military Family Support Day sponsored by the Lacey Chamber of Commerce and Hawks Prairie Rotary Club with other local businesses on Sept. 11.

Honoring patriots and their families for serving our nation, the community event in Lacey, Wash., celebrated the distinguished service of all servicemembers and their families.

The organizers of the event also honored several military members specifically, including Chief Master Sgt. Arthur Green, 36th Aerial Port Squadron. Chief Green and his team of Reservists were recognized for their many cargo operations in support of the ongoing activities in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as in support of humanitarian crisis response, such as the earthquake in Haiti.

"It was truly an honor to receive that award and know the community is behind what our military members do and the sacrifices our families make," said Chief Green. "It makes our deployments easier to handle knowing there is community support for your family members during your deployment."
The community event also recognized Senior Master Sgt. Stephen Harris, 446th Services Flight, for his Reservists' honorable work preparing more than 500 fallen heroes for their return home.

"Sergeant Harris is a great first sergeant," said Staff Sgt. Don Johnson, 446th SVF technician. "He's our go-to guy and always does what it takes to get the job done."

Many local military leaders attended the event, including Col. William Flanigan, 446th Airlift Wing commander.

"It's great to be here," said Colonel Flanigan. "It's very humbling to see this outpouring of support for all the Reservists."