Citizen soldiers are those who give up their regular lives to take on a role in the U.S. military. On Sunday, more than 550 of them were honored for their service and sacrifice.
In 2008, the Air National Guard began the Hometown Heroes salute recognition program. For the first time, these members of the New York Air National Guard are being honored for their participation in operations across the world since September 11, 2001. But it's not only military personnel being honored, family members and other supporters of the airmen are also included.
"Each awardee will be presented with a plaque, incased in a frame along with two individual coins for their efforts, based on their activation. The family members will also receive various awards. The spouse or significant other will receive an engraved pen set," explains Master Sgt. Shawn Larrabee of the 107th Airlift Wing. They're also giving Hometown Hero dog tags to the children of the service people.
Those honored on Sunday were recognized for having deployed for more than 30 consecutive days but less than 179 consecutive days. Future award ceremonies will recognize those who have served even longer tours of duty.
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