More Than 100 ASTAR Air Cargo Employees Recognized by U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command for Wartime Service in Support of U.S. Military.

MIAMI -- Pilots, Other Employees from Ohio, Northern Kentucky and South Florida Among Those Honored at Andrews Air Force Base Ceremony

The U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command presented awards to 102 ASTAR Air Cargo employees who operated and provided support for missions during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom at a ceremony at Andrews Air Force Base, near Washington, D.C.

Air Force Major General Mark Volcheff, director of operations for Air Mobility Command, presented the awards to ASTAR employees for operating flights in support of the U.S. military during the recent conflict in Iraq.

Commercial passenger and cargo aircraft augment Department of Defense airlift during times of war and in other extraordinary instances when the need for airlift exceeds the capability of military aircraft. AMC's mission is to provide airlift, air refueling, special air mission, and aeromedical evacuation for U.S. forces.

"The ASTAR employees honored exemplify our company's dedication to serving our country," said John Dasburg, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of ASTAR. "We are proud that our employees had this opportunity to provide critical support to our brave men and women in uniform and it is an honor to receive these distinguished awards from the Department of Defense."

"These certificates are AMC's way of paying tribute and recognition to our civilian airline partners for their significant contributions to the Global War on Terrorism," General Volcheff said. "We want to thank our civilian airline partners for their outstanding support during our country's time of need."

When activated for these military support missions, civilian participants often have only a small window of time to prepare. And in many cases, the crew members are flying into unfamiliar areas.

"The ASTAR employees honored are true American patriots, and we could not be more proud of their contribution," said Ret. Major General Ted Mallory, ASTAR's Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, in his remarks of the ceremony. "I salute you for your commitment to this country and your distinguished service, especially during the challenging time of war."

Eleven ASTAR employees recognized at Andrews -- Thomas Coleman, Anthony Estrella, Steven Garrett, Frank Haidet, Clyde Harrow, James Huddleston, Stan Kalina, Bernard Richardson, Frank Richmond, Philippe Verbrugghen and John Winters -- received the Aerial Achievement Medal, indicating that they flew at least seven missions over Iraq during the conflict period. Certificates of Appreciation were presented to 91 ASTAR operations and maintenance employees for their support for AMC missions.

"Our commitment to serving the U.S. Armed Forces does not end with the missions recognized," said Dasburg. "We look forward to providing outstanding support to our military and to our country in the years to come."

Most of the ASTAR employees in attendance arrived at Andrews aboard a C-130 aircraft operated by the Kentucky Air National Guard. Immediately after the ceremony, representatives from ASTAR and the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) signed a Statement of Support, affirming ASTAR's support for employees who participate in the U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Components.

ASTAR Air Cargo is a licensed U.S. air carrier operating a fleet of 41 aircraft from its hub at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. The airline provides all-cargo scheduled and charter services for customers including the U.S. Military and the United States Postal Service. ASTAR Air Cargo, headquartered in Miami, Florida, is a participant in the United States Civil Reserve Air Fleet program supporting our national defense. Additional information can be found at www.astaraircargo.us.