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JBSA News
NEWS | Feb. 1, 2008

Applauding a Hero: Team Randolph honors Airman’s service to country

By Airman 1st Class Katie Hickerson Wingspread editor

An Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician from Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., was given a hero's welcome and honor here Tuesday for his dedication to duty and service in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. 

Staff Sgt. Christopher Slaydon was awarded the Purple Heart, the Air Force Combat Action Medal and two Army Commendation medals, one with valor, by Gen. William Looney, Air Education and Training Command commander. 

Sergeant Slaydon was injured during a mission to clear a path for a convoy, while on a deployment to Iraq last year. The tour was his third deployment. 

According to officials, EOD technicians are called into the most dangerous locations in the area of responsibility and get up close and personal with the number one killer in the war on terror, improvised explosive devices. Technicians are tasked to disrupt bombs that kill or maim entire groups of ground forces. 

Sergeant Slaydon has been in the Air Force for 14 years and has been stationed at Luke AFB since October of 1994. He was assigned to the 506th EOD unit at the time of his deployment. 

Capt. Matt Hileman, 56th EOD flight commander, acted as Sergeant Slaydon's commander during his time at Luke AFB. 

"Sergeant Slaydon is an exceptionally skilled and motivated leader for all his peers," Captain Hileman said. "He has had an incredibly positive impact on everyone here and I would like to thank him on his outstanding positive attitude." 

With his wife, Annette, by his side, Sergeant Slaydon has made a great deal of improvement in only three months, the Captain said. 

"Those who serve in the military have to be ultimately brave in those critical seconds, minutes, hours and even lifetime of service," Captain Hileman said. "Sergeant Slaydon and his family have devoted their support to the completion of the Air Force mission." 

"I want to thank and praise Sergeant Slaydon's wife for taking care of him, supporting him and working as a team," the Captain added.