Rescue Wing rings in holiday season

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Natasha Dowridge
  • 920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.- --  Sunshine and shorts mocked the celebration for the wing winter holiday picnic at Chevron Park here Dec. 3.

Taunted with a brief drizzle, Rescue Wing Reservists gathered together to kick start the holiday season with music, food and games at the park, and of course family. After a commander's call with wing commander, Col. Jeffrey Macrander, Reservists were released from the performing their drill training to enjoy the festivities.

"We couldn't do this without family," said Macrander.

As the only reserve combat-search-and-rescue wing in Air Force Reserve Command, this unit deploys often. Approximately 60 Rescue Reservists returned home from Afghanistan in October completing nearly 500 missions, saving more than 350 lives.

Many of those who returned spent time catching up with their fellow reservists and family.

"It's nice to have him home," said Michelle Carpenter, wife of Capt. Paul Carpenter, HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter pilot.

To get the children in the holiday spirit, they got a surprise visit from Santa himself.

"I can't believe it's him!" shouted one of the kids.

The children were able to share their many wishes, receive candy and have their photo taken with red-clad jolly man.

As the 920th RQW prepares for the upcoming holidays, "we hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday season," said Colonel Macrander.

"Our thoughts are with the nearly 120 Reservists who are currently deployed worldwide serving our nation far away from family and friends," said the commander. "I appreciate the sacrifices they and their families continue to make."

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