Edwards helps sergeant's family after home burglary

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stacy Sanchez
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Team Edwards gathered together Feb. 1 to help the family of Tech Sgt. James Holzer, who is currently deployed to Afghanistan, after intruders burglarized and ransacked their home early morning on Jan. 31.

The incident made national news when deputies from the Lancaster, Calif. Sheriff's office found their family pet, who was missing after the incident, in the home's freezer.

The Chihuahua spent at least 90 minutes inside. A local veterinarian declared the animal in good health.

Team Edwards immediately went into action after Sergeant Holzer's wife, Kimberly Holzer, who is pregnant with twins, called Edwards and notified the base of the incident.

The family support effort was led by Capt. Lauren Sbihli, 412th Test Wing executive officer, said Ignacio Diaz, 412th Test Wing executive support division chief.

"We had active-duty military and Air Force civilians from the 412th Test Wing stop by Sergeant Holzer's home Feb.1 to prepare Mrs. Holzer a dinner and provide financial and emotional support," Mr. Diaz said. "One of the Edwards spouses also fixed the door latch that was broken during the burglary."

Several other organizations on base also provided assistance.

The Air Force Aid Society is currently working to get the Holzer family a grant for more than $500 to help with any emergency clean-up and repair of their home, said John Watola, Air Force Aid officer.

The Edwards commissary also provided a $50 gift certificate to the family, and the base chaplain offered to provide counseling support if needed and donated six bags of food from their pantry.

The 412th Test Wing command section also donated dinner, money and emotional support.

Col. Arnie Bunch, 412th Test Wing commander, and Col. H. Brent Baker Sr., 95th Air Base Wing commander, had the 95th Security Forces Squadron contact the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department in Lancaster to see if there was any safety or security risk for Mrs. Holzer.

"We also offered Mrs. Holzer base housing if she felt her safety and personal security was at risk," Mr. Diaz said.

Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Soltis, 412th Test Wing command chief, put Mrs. Holzer in touch with the Edwards legal office to obtain legal advice and assistance.

Col. Richard Ingalsbe, 412th Test Wing vice commander, contacted Sergeant Holzer's deployed commander and asked him to make sure they paid special attention to Sergeant Holzer and to ensure his emotional well being.

"The support provided by Team Edwards was outstanding," said Mr. Diaz. "Without hesitation everyone on base was on board to help in any way possible. The 412th Test Wing, 95th Air Base Wing, Security Forces, Chapel and Air Force Aid Society efforts are ongoing and will continue," Mr. Diaz said.

Edwards received an e-mail from Sergeant Holzer on Feb. 2 saying he was deeply appreciative of all the support the base provided to help his family, Mr. Diaz said.

Five intruders are facing possible charges of animal cruelty and burglary.