2/4 Hometown heroes

Rodriguez

Army National Guard Sgt. First Class Ernest S. Rodriguez is a member of the 115 Area Support Group based in Roseville, Calif. The group has deployed to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Rodriguez, an automated logistical specialist, has served in the military for 23 years.

He is the son of Ernest R. Rodriguez of Hanford, Calif., and Alice P. Salivar of Lompoc, Calif.

His wife, Karla, is the daughter of Earl Borden of Fort Sumner and Adele Bordon of Paso Robles, Calif.

The sergeant is a 1981 graduate of San Luis Obispo Senior High School, Calif.

Carter

Navy Petty Officer Third Class Aaron C. Carter, son of Derinda and Alva Carter of Portales, is assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The carrier is homeported in Norfolk, Va, and is currently deployed.

The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group has participated in Operation Steel Curtain and Maritime Security Operations.

Carter is a 2002 graduate of Portales High School and joined the Navy in August 2003.

Falks

Airman Frisco J. Falks recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization and military customs and courtesies. He also performed drill and ceremony marches and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises and special training in human relations.

In addition, airman who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree.