Squadron rallies around Airman after loss of mother and niece to Haiti earthquake Published Jan. 28, 2010 By Steve Berry 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- While major organizations at Scott planned and prepared relief efforts immediately following the Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti, one Airman here was waiting to hear from his family there. Unfortunately, two days after the earthquake, Senior Airman Joseph Herard, 375th Logistics Readiness Squadron, learned that his mother, Louisana Clearveau, and 12-year-old niece were killed. Since then his squadron has rallied around him and his family as the Herards deal with difficult circumstances surrounding their family. Airman Herard said he has received a lot of support from his squadron. Members of the 375th LRS collected money, which he sent to his brother and sister who remain in Haiti. Their home was destroyed and they are living with an uncle. Airman Herard said his supervisors have also been very supportive. The squadron's first sergeant and commander have called and visited Airman Herard and his wife, Airman 1st Class Amber Kelly-Herard, at home. Lt. Col. Timothy Gillaspie, 375th LRS commander, said his organization has tried to stand by Airman Herard. "We've done what any squadron would do, I would hope--we have been looking out for him," he said. The 375th LRS key spouses group has supported the Herards by cooking many meals for them. "Our key spouses have really been great," Colonel Gillaspie said. Airman Herard said he received an additional anonymous check in the mail that he was able to forward on to family members in Haiti. "The card said 'you don't know me, but we are all a part of the Air Force Family.' To me that was touching, because all these people took time out of their busy schedules to help us out," he said. "I wish there was more I could do other than say 'thank you,' but I really appreciate all that everyone has done." Airman Herard was born in Haiti and moved to Nyack, N.Y., in 2005 where his father lives. He joined the Air Force Jan. 2, 2007. Airman Herard returned to Scott from a deployment in Iraq on Christmas day and reunited with his wife and newborn daughter. The Herards are currently waiting for civilian flights to resume to Haiti, while they continue to support family members.