Waiting for the 917th Airmen
By: Leslie Draffin
Updated: April 17, 2012
The "welcome home" banner is up and 4-year-old Billy is putting the finishing touches on a sign that says it all, "I- L-O-V-E Y-O-U." His mom, SSgt. Amber Engel has been deployed since December. "I love you mommy," Billy says. His dad Joshua, has been busy filling in as Mr. Mom, a role the active duty Air Force SSgt. isn't used to playing. But one he's doing with a smile and a sense of humour. "I'm a pro at laundry now I know that. When Amber left she made me promise to bleach the whites, so I've been bleaching the whites," Joshua laughs. He adds, balancing his work, Billy's school and household chores has been tough. Even tougher because there aren't many men like him, waiting for their wives to come back with the 917th Fighter Group, "I'm the lone wolf."
And while some of the A-10s are back home the airmen responsible for flying and maintaining these aircraft aren't. They'll be here soon, just not as soon as their families might like. In fact Amber was supposed to be home Saturday, then Sunday and finally Monday. But, once again plans changed. "He was like its Monday, Mommy's coming home today and I had to tell him no not today, its the second time I've had to tell him that. It's been frustrating but we know its close, she'll be home soon and that's what keeps us motivated," Joshua says.
For now Billy's keeping memories of Mom close..."who's that?" Joshua asks.
"It's my Mommy," Billy responds.
"Who's she holding?"
"Me."
...until he can hold her close again.
