RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFPN) --
A C-17 Globemaster III crew with 24 patients were met by President George W. Bush July 10 after flying from Ramstein Air Base to Andrews Air Force Base, Md.
Eight 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron members left Ramstein AB and provided medical care for the patients being transported to the U.S. with injuries they sustained while deployed in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
The mission was unique because Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley was on board after a visit throughout Southwest Asia. The mission became even more unique when they landed at Andrews AFB and greeted by the president.
"When we landed we were told we had a visitor, and then President Bush walked on board the C-17," said Master Sgt. Phillip Gettins, an 86th AES medical technician. "It gave me an overwhelming sense of pride to be on a mission where I not only help patients, but also the president of the United States thanked me for my service."
The president visited every patient, often kneeling on the floor to shake their hands or hug them, said Capt. Laura Benham, an 86th AES flight nurse.
"The patients' eyes just lit up," Captain Benham said. "We were so excited to (see) the president's impromptu visit."
After the president made the rounds visiting with each and every patient, he thanked the Ramstein AB crew and remarked on how great their service is to their country, Captain Benham said.
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