Haiti relief efforts recognized by Tampa Bay Lightnings

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Denise Hauser
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 45th Aeromedical Evacuation squadron was recognized for their Haiti relief efforts by the local Tampa Bay Hockey Team.  The Tampa Bay Lightnings dedicated a portion of a commercial spot to the 45th during the March 6 game. The 45th AES is attached to the 927th Air Refueling Wing Operations Group. 

The 45th AES has been the command and control center for the Haiti relief since the devastating earthquake Jan. 12.  To date, approximately 30 missions have been flown and more than 200 patients and family members have been transported to the U.S. to receive medical care not available in Haiti as a result of the earthquake. 

Lt. Col. CJ Newhouse, commander of the 45th AES, was recognized at the game along with Col. Ted Mathews, vice wing commander of the 927th ARW, Lt. Col. Chris McKinnie, Director of Operations for the 45th, Maj. Christopher Joseph with the 6th Air Mobility Wing Medical Group, Chief Master Sgt. Nina Watkins, command chief of the 927th ARW, Mr. Danny Lewis, the honorary commander of the 45th AES, and Ms. Ginger Judge, honorary commander of the 927th ARW Operations Group.

An entire section of the arena was reserved for troops who flew missions back and forth to Haiti, and transported the sick and injured back to the U.S. for treatment. 

The recognition began with announcing the leadership of the 45th with photos from the Haiti relief flashing on the jumbo tron.  When the troops were recognized in their section with the spotlight on them, the arena exploded with a standing ovation, cheers, screams, and applause from the fans. 

"It was absolutely awe-inspiring to receive that much support from the Tampa Bay community," said Newhouse.  "It makes you feel very comfortable to go forward and do your job with that kind of support."

Thank you to the Tampa Bay Lightnings for their support and recognition of the troops.  Thank you also to the honorary commanders who attended this event.  The 927th is very appreciative of your continued support. 

A very special thanks goes out to the 45th AES for all of their efforts during the Haiti Relief mission.