Coraopolis, Pa. -- President of the United States Donald J. Trump landed in Air Force One at the Pennsylvania Air National Guard’s 171st Air Refueling Wing in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania Jan. 18, 2018.
Greeting the president as he departed Air Force One was Col. Raymond L. Hyland, the Maintenance Group Commander with his wife Kim Hyland, Rick Saccone, republican nominee for the 18th congressional district with his wife Yong Saccone, Col. Jeffery Van Dootingh, Commander of the 911th Airlift Wing and Christina Cassotis, Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO.
The president was accompanied by his daughter Ivanka Trump, Steven Mnuchin, United States Secretary of the Treasury and Gary Cohn, Director of National Economic Council.
Approximately 350 Guardsmen and guests braved the subfreezing temperatures to greet the president. Trump took time to talk to members of the crowd and welcomed photo opportunities.
Many Guardsmen got the opportunity to briefly speak with the president.
“The opportunity to shake his hand, get two pictures of me and my daughter signed and advocate for autism,” said Master Sgt. Chad Lynch, a Staff Accountant with the 171st Comptroller Flight “I got more than I ever would've expected.”
“We’re working hard on it,” Trump responded to Lynch.
Trump departed by motorcade to visit H&K Equipment, Inc. of Pittsburgh to tour the facility, meet with workers and discuss the newly passed U.S. Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017. Trump spoke of many local Pittsburgh area businesses and workers by name.
“I want to thank the people of the great great great state of Pennsylvania,” said Trump during his speech.
“I am thrilled to be back in Pennsylvania with the hardworking men and women,” said Trump.
171st Guardsmen worked expeditiously with White House officials and Secret Service to ensure a fluent visit.