Welcome Home, Heroes: Arizona National Guardsmen Return After 10 Months
After more than 10 months of courageously serving in 17 locations across seven countries, over 350 Arizona National Guard Citizen-Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 158th Infantry Regiment, Bushmasters, were joyfully reunited with their families in Phoenix. The emotional welcome home ceremony was a testament to their dedication and bravery.
Despite the challenges they faced, including 33 guardsmen being wounded in a drone attack in Jordan, the unit’s unwavering commitment and rigorous training enabled them to respond with professionalism and valor.
For families like that of Capt. Logan Sansom, who left behind his wife Ariel and their three young children, the return was a long-awaited moment of joy. Ariel expressed her excitement at having her husband back home, highlighting the sacrifices and unexpected changes they endured during his absence.
Wife of battalion commander Lt. Col. Joseph Mayeaux, Kara Mayeaux, reflected on the faith that sustained them through the deployment, emphasizing the importance of support from loved ones during challenging times.
The official welcome ceremony at the AASF Hangar on Papago Park Military Reservation was filled with smiles and tears as the guardsmen arrived. The event included speeches from Governor Katie Hobbs, Maj. Gen. Kerry Muehlenbeck, and a heartwarming reunion of families.
Looking ahead, Capt. Logan Sansom shared his plans to spend quality time with his family, including camping trips and cherished moments with his daughter, Macy. For Lt. Col. Joseph Mayeaux, the experience of surviving adversity together, such as the Jordan drone attack, only strengthened the bond within the unit.
As the guardsmen expressed their pride in accomplishing their mission successfully, they also emphasized the importance of continued support for veterans, soldiers, and their families. The community’s overwhelming show of support served as a poignant reminder of the gratitude felt towards these brave men and women.
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Thank you to all who served, your sacrifices and bravery do not go unnoticed.
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