Ride in Blackhawk helicopter thanks those who employ vets

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield area companies that employ reservists and members of the National Guard received a spectacular “thank you” on Tuesday.

Barnes Air National Guard Base treated dozens of employers to a Blackhawk helicopter ride over Western Massachusetts.

22News went along for the ride, which was part of a day-long salute to those who guarantee when their reservist and National Guard employees return from overseas, their jobs will be waiting.

Town Fair Tire Vice President Jim Uliano, who was among those who went up in the helicopter, told 22News that his company is proud to hire members of the military.

“They make the very best employees, because they've been trained by the Army, trained by the very best, and they realize how important it is to perform your duties to the best of your ability,” he said.

Uliano said that tours of duty often keep these men and women away from their families and their jobs anywhere from three to six months at a time.