2 Ohio Guard members back from Iraq tour

1/12/2006

Two members of the Ohio Air National Guard 180th Fighter Wing returned home yesterday after spending six months in Iraq.

Maj. John Cupp, 37, of Holland, and Chief Master Sgt. Don Dutridge, 47, of Swanton, who are both members of the 180th's Civil Engineering Squadron, were activated in May to serve in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The two men were chosen because of the need for their particular specialities, Lt. Col. Carole Allan said yesterday.

After completing combat skills training at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., both men arrived in Iraq on June 5 for a 180-day tour. They were assigned to a squadron based at Balad Air Base in Iraq, where they led the development of numerous designs and construction of 57 engineering projects estimated at more than $12 million.

The two men arrived last night at Toledo Express Airport.