Two Retired Airmen Honored at 171st Air National Guard Refueling Wing

Nearly 600 airmen stood in formation Sunday at the 171st Air Refueling Wing as officials inducted two men into the Pennsylvania Air National Guard Hall of Fame. 

Rep. Tim Murphy, R-Upper St. Clair, was a keynote speaker at the event at the base in Findlay. The event honored members of the base for their service.

Lt. Col. (ret.) James Zambo of Harrisburg and Chief Master Sgt. (ret.) Anthony Mileca of Latrobe were inducted into the Hall of Fame at the ceremony. Both men served at the 171st Air Refueling Wing during their military careers. 

The Pennsylvania Air National Guard Hall of Fame recognizes exceptional bravery and contributions to the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. Photographs and citations for inductees are displayed at the state's Air National Guard headquarters in Fort Indiantown Gap. 

Mileca, who began his military career as an aircraft mechanic after graduating from Aliquippa High School in 1954, said he was humbled by the induction. 

"I almost fell apart," said Mileca, 75, of his reaction after learning he would join the Hall of Fame. "They honored and credited me just for doing something that I enjoyed." 

Mileca was the only airman to serve in the 171st Refueling Wing's 112th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron from its inception to its deactivation in 1993. He also was appointed by former Sen. Rick Santorum to serve as a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Military Affairs. 

Murphy used his speech to urge the airmen to seek medical and psychological help if the pressures of service become too great. 

Murphy formerly served as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve Medical Service Corps. and treated soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder.

"Understand this," Murphy said."We are in this together. You are never alone. You are a part of a wing, a larger command, the guard and a nation that is proud of everything you do."