Sparta, Illinois-based National Guard Firefighting team returns from Iraq and Syria

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Staff Sgt. James Cissell of Evansville, Illinois, is embraced by his daughter, Courtney Cissell, while his spouse, Angie Cissell, wipes away tears of joy after the 661st Fire Fighting Team return.

• Kelly Kramberg hugs her son, Spc. Austin Kramberg of Quincy, Illinois, after the 661st Engineer Detachment Fire Fighting Team welcome home ceremony, Aug. 16, at the National Guard armory in Sparta.
• Spc. Jared McClintock of Quincy, Illinois embraces his overjoyed family. In foreground, Sophie Kramberg, 9, sheds tears next to her brother, Spc. Austin Kramberg, of Quincy, Illinois.

SPARTA, IL (08/17/2018) (readMedia)-- Family, friends and colleagues gathered at the Sparta Army National Guard Armory in Sparta, Illinois, Aug. 16, for an emotional reunion with six Soldiers returning home the Middle East who served in Iraq and Syria.

The 661st Engineer Detachment Firefighting Team, based in Sparta, Illinois, deployed in October, 2017, to Forward Operating Base Al Qayyarah West (FOB Q-West), Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

The team was primarily responsible for providing firefighting and emergency services during their deployment, which included some time in Syria. In addition to providing emergency services, the team conducted monthly safety inspections and held fire and safety classes that greatly improved base safety by reducing life safety violations.

Additionally, the team developed a strong working relationship with Iraqi Ari Force firefighters by holding bi-weekly cross-training events to hone their skills and practice tactics, techniques and procedures.

All of the team members were awarded the Army Achievement Medal with "C" device for their service as well as various state awards.