Wounded Airman returns home

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mike Holzworth
  • Nellis Public Affairs
LAS VEGAS --  Master Sgt. Christopher Aguilera, 66th Rescue Squadron aerial gunner, returned to Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Nov. 5, after spending four months at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, recovering from wounds he received on deployment.

Sergeant Aguilera was one of two survivors from a HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter crash in southwest Afghanistan that killed five Airmen June 9.

"It's great to see Sergeant Aguilera and have him back in town," said Lt. Col. James McElhenney, 563rd Rescue Group deputy commander.

Every member of the 66th Rescue Squadron who isn't currently deployed was at McCarran International Airport to greet Sergeant Aguilera upon his arrival.

Humbled by the attention and happy to be home, Sergeant Aguilera's first words to the crowd were thanks for the support and to request a moment of silence in remembrance of his fellow crew members who didn't make it.

"It feels great to see all these people and to be welcomed back like this," Sergeant. Aguilera said. "This is awesome."

Sergeant Aguilera went on to say that coming home is just the beginning of his recovery. He still has many physical injuries and broken bones to deal with. He was also optimistic in setting his goals for future recovery.

"I plan on being able to walk without crutches within a month and hopefully be jogging by the end of next year," Sergeant Aguilera said. " Then I'll be back flying again."

Capt. Anthony Simone, 66th Rescue Squadron HH-60G pilot and surviving crew member, is still recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center.