Civil engineering reservists return home from serving six months in Afghanistan

About 20 civil engineers are scheduled to return home today, Sept. 15, following a six-month deployment to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. The 439th Civil Engineering Squadron cadre was imbedded with the U.S. Army at Bagram, a key base of more than 22,000 people. Westover civil engineers worked construction projects to support the Army mission throughout Southwest Asia. A unique aspect of their deployment included training Afghan nationals in civil engineering trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, heavy equipment and HVAC (heating and air conditioning). Every member received achievement accolades, and three reservists were recognized for outstanding achievements. Senior Airman Andrew Bergeron was recognized by Air Force Reserve Commander, Lt. Gen. Charles Stenner for developing and teaching an English program for Afghan nationals. Senior Master Sgt. Daniel Jalbert was selected as Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Month for all Bagram units, and Senior Airman Matthew Ballos for his forward deployment to Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan to support Army operations. The Airmen, most residing in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, are assigned to the 439th Civil Engineering Squadron here. These reservists comprise more than 120 reservists from Westover's 439th Airlift Wing who have been deployed throughout 2009 to help fight the Global War on Terrorism.