Joint Forces Headquarters INDIANA NATIONAL GUARD OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS 2002 South Holt Road Indianapolis, Indiana 46241 317-247-3222 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 9, 2007 For additional information contact: Lt Col. Deedra Thombleson, Public Affairs Officer, 317-247-3105 Release #02092007 - 1 Freedom Salute Award Ceremony EVANSVILLE, Ind. – At 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2007, the Freedom Salute Campaign will honor Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 163rd Field Artillery. This event will be held at the National Guard Armory, 3300 Division Street in Evansville. Soldiers who deployed as part of the security force mission will participate in this ceremony. Each eligible Soldier will receive an encased American Flag, a sequentially numbered commemorative coin; a "Defender of Freedom" certificate signed by the Director of the Army National Guard, and the Command Sergeant Major; and a lapel insignia. The soldier's spouse and children will also receive items recognizing their support and contribution. During the ceremony, the Adjutant General of Indiana, Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger, will present the 1-163rd with Freedom Salute Awards. Selected members will also be receiving Purple Hearts for injuries that occurred while in theater. Umbarger is among the key speakers, as are Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel, Congressman Brad Elsworth, and Brig. Gen. David Harris, commander of the 76th Infantry Brigade. The Freedom Salute gives Indiana National Guard Soldiers an opportunity to recognize parents, spouses and employers for their support in National Guard deployments and missions at home and abroad. Military public affairs representatives will be onsite for media inquiries and coordination. Media is invited to attend the event. Those interested in attending should contact the Joint Forces Headquarters – Indiana Public Affairs Office at 317-247-3222. -30- Susan S. Hawver Public Affairs Office Indiana National Guard 2002 S. Holt Road Indianapolis, IN 46241 (317) 247-3222