Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Fire breathing launch: Osan's jets are ready

by Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/19/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- As the sun begins to rise March 20, 2012, F-16 Fighting Falcons and an A-10 Thunderbolt II launch from Osan Air Base as part of the operational readiness exercise Beverly Midnight 12-01. Osan's Airmen provide combat ready forces for close air support, air strike control, counter air, interdiction, theater airlift, and communications in the defense of the Republic of Korea, and the exercise tests these abilities during a heightened state of readiness



The first A-10 Thunderbolt II sortie for operational readiness exercise Beverly Midnight 12-01 takes off from Osan Air Base, March 20, 2012. Osan’s Airmen provide combat ready forces for close air support, air strike control, counter air, interdiction, theater airlift, and communications in the defense of the Republic of Korea, and the exercise tests these abilities during a heightened state of readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Craig R. Cisek) Hi-res



The first A-10 Thunderbolt II sortie for operational readiness exercise Beverly Midnight 12-01 takes off from Osan Air Base, March 20, 2012. Osan’s Airmen provide combat ready forces for close air support, air strike control, counter air, interdiction, theater airlift, and communications in the defense of the Republic of Korea, and the exercise tests these abilities during a heightened state of readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Craig R. Cisek) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79???-0211 from the 25th Fighter Squadron.

Source

Saturday, March 17, 2012

124th Wing successfully completed Exercise Gemstone Warrior

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

During the last couple of days, 124th Wing Public Affairs released a lot of new pictures on their unique website The Beacon Live. Those pictures (at least 24) are related to their newest exercise.



Available official photo caption: The 124th Wing successfully completed Exercise Gemstone Warrior during March 2012 UTA. The 124th Maintenance Group generated aircraft for deployment and combat operations. Wing Commander Col. James R. Compton said he was encouraged by the overall...

Note: Pictured is A-10C 78-0618 from the 190th Fighter Squadron.





Please note: Following the 124th Wing on the web isn't easy since they established The Beacon Live as a website in addition to their regular website. The problem: They doesnt further update their regular website, and the full content of The Beacon Live is RESTRICTED only to 124th wing members and other military people. Because of that, I try to make screenshots of their released photos. At least from my viewpoint: I don't like this RESTRICTED public affairs publicity doing by 124th Wing staff. That's not a good idea, and it's 100 % in contrast to most of all other current A-10C units which are online with websites and associated Facebook pages. BTW: It's stressful to copy their pictures, save them, and publish them again. I would like to get all related hi-res shots on their regular website.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

New Fact Sheet Profiles 107th FS

Released by 127th Wing Public Affairs

3/15/2012 - SELFRIDGE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE -- A new fact sheet profiling the 107th Fighter Squadron has been added to the 127th Wing page. The fact sheet, which lists the recent deployments of the squadron and offers a glimpse at the 95-year history of the squadron, is available by clicking in the link. It includes an image of the squadron patch.

Please note: And here's the fact sheet's content, copied from the PDF:

U.S. Air Force Fact Sheet
107th Fighter Squadron


Flying the A-10 Thunderbolt II, the 107th Fighter Squadron is one of the oldest flying units in the U.S. Air Force. Known as "The Red Devils," the squadron has served on multiple deployments in recent years, including launching aircraft to defend sovereign U.S. airspace on Sept. 11, 2001.

The 107th Fighter Squadron is a component of the 127th Operations Group of the 127th Wing and is a part of the Michigan Air National Guard. The unit is based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base and is comprised of approximately 28 pilots and 45 support personnel. The 107th FS is closely supported by the 127th Maintenance Group which maintains the A-10 aircraft assigned to Selfridge.

History
The 107th was first organized as the 107th Aero Squadron at Kelly Field, Texas, on 27 Aug. 1917 in response to the U.S. entry into World War I earlier that year. The unit was demobilized and disbanded in March 1919, following the conclusion of the war. In 1925, a squadron of 20 officers and 90 enlisted men began meeting weekly in a Detroit garage and created the Michigan National Guard's first flying unit. On 7 May 1926, the unit received federal recognition and was designated the 107th Observation Squadron. Through more than 20 major aircraft and related name changes, the unit has been in operation as the 107th ever since. After more than 40 years of operations at Detroit-Metropolitan Airport, the unit has been assigned to Selfridge since 1971. It was designated as the 107th Fighter Squadron on 15 March 1992 and began flying the A-10 Thunderbolt II on 2 May 2009.

Major Deployments
1940-1946: Activated for World War II. Assignments included: Anti-submarine patrols along U.S. East Coast; tactical reconnaissance in the European Theater. Primary aircraft included P-51 and F-6.
1951-52: Mobilized to Luke AFB in Arizona as part of a pilot training wing during the Korean War. Primary aircraft: F-84.
1997 to Kuwait for Operation Sothern Watch. Primary aircraft: F-16
1999 to Incirlik, Turkey, in support of Operation Northern Watch. Primary aircraft: F-16
2001 to Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia for Operation Southern Watch. Primary aircraft: F-16
Spring 2003 to Incirlik, Turkey, in support of Operation Northern Watch -- which marked the first time since World War II the unit dropped weapons (over Iraq). Primary aircraft: F-16
2004 for Operation Iraqi Freedom as the first USAF F-16 unit based in Iraq, at Kirkuk Air Base (the unit participated in the Battle for Fallujah). Primary aircraft: F-16
2007 for Operation Iraqi Freedom based at Balad Air Base. Primary aircraft: F-16
2011-12 to Kandahar, Afghanistan. Primary aircraft: A-10.

Source

Very first official A-10C shot from Bagram Airfield after relocating

Released by 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Approximately 300 reservists are deployed to Afghanistan from the 442nd Fighter Wing. The 442nd FW is an A-10 Thunderbolt II Air Force Reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air Force/courtesy photo) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 81-0994 from the 303rd Fighter Squadron.

Wright Flight

Released by 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Students from Central-Hardin Middle School went on a tour of Whiteman Air Force Base on March 12, 2012. The tour was organized by Wright Flight, a non-profit organization that motivates students to achieve academically through incentive tours and flights. The students were briefed on the 442nd Fighter Wing A-10 Thunderbolt IIs by Col. Gregory Eckfeld and Capt. Christopher Johns. They were also shown the Oscar 1 site by Staff Sgt. Steven Bussey and ate at the Ozark Inn dining facility. The 442nd Fighter Wing is an A-10 Thunderbolt II reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Wesley Wright) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0136, named Thunderbolt of Sedalia, from the 303rd Fighter Squadron.



Students from Central-Hardin Middle School went on a tour of Whiteman Air Force Base on March 12, 2012. The tour was organized by Wright Flight, a non-profit organization that motivates students to achieve academically through incentive tours and flights. The students were briefed on the 442nd Fighter Wing A-10 Thunderbolt IIs by Col. Gregory Eckfeld and Capt. Christopher Johns. They were also shown the Oscar 1 site by Staff Sgt. Steven Bussey and ate at the Ozark Inn dining facility. The 442nd Fighter Wing is an A-10 Thunderbolt II reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Wesley Wright) Hi-res

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Tigers fly pass last exercise before ORI

Released by 23rd Wing Public Affairs



3/12/2012 - A U.S. Air Force crew chief with the 23d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron marshals an A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot during a phase II operational readiness exercise at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., March 7, 2012. OREs test the 23d Wing’s ability to meet wartime and contingency tasks and to survive and operate in a deployed location. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie Mancha) Hi-res



3/12/2012 - An A-10C Thunderbolt II assigned to the 74th Fighter Squadron taxis for flight during an operational readiness exercise March 7, 2012, at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. This was the last ORE before the operational readiness inspection scheduled the end of the month. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie Mancha) Hi-res

Note: Pictured in both photos is A-10C 81-0990 from the 74th Fighter Squadron.



3/12/2012 - U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Michael Mindziak, 23d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, performs a preflight inspection during a phase II operational readiness inspection at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., March 7, 2012. Crew chiefs ensure aircraft are ready to fly by performing preflight, post-flight, through flight, launch and recovery checks and resolve any discrepancies they may find. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie Mancha) Hi-res



3/12/2012 - U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Hammad Gnazali, 23d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron specialist, checks computer data during a phase II operational readiness exercise at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., March 7, 2012. Aircraft specialists review data during preflight inspections of all aircraft to ensure they are mission ready. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie Mancha) Hi-res

Source

A-10 pilots can breath easier knowing Whiteman Airmen are on the job

Released by 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



3/12/2012 - Airman Branden Jewell, 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron/b-flight, closes the canopy of an A-10 Thunderbolt II after loading liquid oxygen onto to it on March 4, 2012. The 442nd AMXS is part of the 442nd Fighter Wing, an A-10 reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Wesley Wright) Hi-res



3/12/2012 - Airman Branden Jewell, 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron/b-flight, loads liquid oxygen onto an A-10 Thunderbolt II on March 4, 2012. The 442nd AMXS is part of the 442nd Fighter Wing, an A-10 reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Wesley Wright) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0114 "Thunderbolt of Kansas City" from the 303rd Fighter Squadron.

Source

188th Ops Group conducts water survival training

Released by 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Specialists with the 188th Operations Group's Life Support Element administered water survival training to pilots with the 184th Fighter Squadron of the 188th Fighter Wing at Creekmore Park in Fort Smith, Ark., March 4, 2012. The training is required for aviators prior to deploying. The objective of the training is to prepare pilots for the potential of ejecting from their A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" while flying over water. The 188th Fighter Wing will deploy to Afghanistan this summer in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It will be the unit's second combat deployment in the A-10. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

3/9/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Specialists with the 188th Operations Group's Life Support Element administered water survival training to pilots with the 184th Fighter Squadron of the 188th Fighter Wing at Creekmore Park in Fort Smith, Ark., March 4, 2012.

The training is required for aviators prior to deploying. The objective of the training was to prepare pilots for the potential of ejecting from their A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" while flying over water. The 188th Fighter Wing will deploy to Afghanistan this summer in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It will be the unit's second combat deployment in the A-10.

The 188th's last Air Expeditionary Forces rotation was in 2010 when it deployed approximately 300 Airman to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

The A-10's primary mission in southern Afghanistan is to fly close-air support in response to ground troops who may be in contact with the enemy, or to escort convoys in particularly hostile areas. When not supporting ground troops, A-10s patrol designated sectors and provides aerial reconnaissance on locations of interest to ground commanders.

Source

Jets require 'health' assessment to stay fit to fight

by Staff Sgt. Stefanie Torres
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Senior Airman Christopher Blackstone, 51st Maintenance Squadron phase crew chief, applies lubrication to the nose landing gear struts of an A-10 here, March 7, 2012. Blackstone is applying the lubrication to ensure points are able to maneuver freely without corrosion. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Adam Grant) Hi-res






3/7/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Airmen are required to be fit to fight, and same goes for aircraft.

Osan's F-16 Fighting Falcons and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs are constantly flying. Just like Air Force members are required to get an annual health assessment, aircraft go through a similar process through the phase dock.

"Our aircraft go through an in-depth inspection after so many hours," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Torres, floor chief for the phase dock process. "During the phase process, we are looking at areas that we don't normally look at when (aircraft) are on a normal flying schedule."

Jets are taken through an extensive inspection that requires them to be taken apart and pieced back together in order for maintainers to view every detail of the aircraft.

"Once the jet comes in, they de-panel it, start removing parts and perform leak checks, and they also look for cracks and anything else on the aircraft that is not normally seen on the flightline."

Jets go through a lot of stressors and have some natural wear and tear, especially as aircraft parts get older, Torres explained. Often maintenance crews can patch up the planes and go, but for every 500 hours of flying, a more extensive maintenance process is required.

The aircraft go through two phases; phase dock teams are allotted five days in the first phase and 10 days in the second phase. Specialized equipment can be used to pinpoint problems that can't be physically seen as planes are disassembled and pieced back together.

Senior Airman William Lavender, 51st Maintenance Squadron non destructive inspection journeyman, uses electric currents to look for cracks that can cause structural problems later.

"The machine sends off what is called an eddy current, and if there is a crack, the current will come back and show it on the machine," he said. "We also X-ray certain parts and go through the sheet metal shop to see if we can fix it. We do what we have to in order to get the plane flying again."

Attention to detail is especially important when it comes to the safety of the aircrew and to keep the aircraft in good condition.

"There are critical inspection areas that we look at, and some areas have a higher chance for something to be wrong, so we pay close attention to that," Torres said. "Each piece is critical to the aircraft, so we make sure that those areas are good to go and that there's nothing damaged, broken or out of limits. So it's important to make sure that the aircraft are structurally sound and we continue to give aircrew safe, reliable airplanes."

After the process is complete, the jets are reintroduced to the flightline and ready to fly again. Phase dock personnel then repeat the process with another aircraft due for a "health" assessment.



Senior Airman Christopher Blackstone, 51st Maintenance Squadron phase crew chief, applies lubrication to different parts of an A-10 here, March 7, 2012. The lubrication placed on the different parts of the aircraft ensures the aircraft maneuvers properly. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Adam Grant) Hi-res

Note: That's a rare view of a raised A-10 tail cone.

Source

Sunday, March 11, 2012

127th Operations Group and 107th Fighter Squadron Change of Command

Released by 127nd Wing Public Affairs



Col. Michael Thomas, 127th Wing commander, hands the 127th Operations Group guidon to Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne as Champagne formally assumes command of the group. Champagne previously served as the commander of the 107th Fighter Squadron at Selfridge Air National Guard Base and recently led the squadron on a deployment to Afghanistan, the sixth combat deployment of Champagne's career. Behind the flag is SMSgt. Ethan Boyd, the first sergeant for the 127th Operations Group, and Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis, who took command of the 107th Fighter Squadron in the same ceremony, March 10, 2012. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt. David Kujawa) Hi-res



Col. Leonard Isabelle addresses the 127th Operations Group at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., moments before relinquishing command of the group to Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne in a March 10, 2012, change of command ceremony. Isabelle is moving to a position at Joint Forces Headquarters in Lansing, Mich. The 127th Operations Group flies the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt. David Kujawa) Hi-res



Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis holds the 107th Fighter Squadron guidon after assuming command of the squadron during a March 10, 2012, ceremony at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. Saridakis, an A-10 Thunderbolt pilot, relieved Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne, who took command of the 127th Operations Group. The banners on the guidon reflect the almost 100-year history of the 107th FS. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt. David Kujawa) Hi-res






















After this photo release, 127th Fighter Wing Public Affairs released the following news article:


Champagne, Saridakis Take New Leadership Roles


127th Wing Public Affairs

3/10/2012 - SELFRIDGE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mich. -- Two combat veterans took on new duties as the Michigan Air National Guard's 127th Operations Group and 107th Fighter Squadron witnessed a change of command ceremony Saturday, March 10 at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne took command of the Operations Group and Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis took command of the Fighter Squadron in a ceremony in front of a formation of the group's pilots, maintenance and support personnel and other wing officers and Airmen.

The group and squadron operate the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft.

Lt. Col. Champagne earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force in 1987, serving on active duty through June 1996. Upon leaving active duty, he immediately joined the Michigan Air National Guard, serving as a full time member of the 107th Fighter Squadron. He has served the unit in various positions, including chief of weapons, chief of scheduling and training, chief of safety, director of operations and, most recently, as the squadron commander. Champagne is a command pilot with over 3,000 flying hours in the F-16 Falcon and over 500 flying hours in the A-10. His service includes more than 500 hours of combat flying missions on six overseas deployments in support of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Desert Calm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. On Sept. 11, 2001, Champagne flew in the first fully armed combat air patrol over Detroit.

After accepting the flag as the 127th Operations Group commander, Champagne challenged the Airmen witnessing his stepping into a new leadership role to all be leaders.

"It's leadership that will take this group through the most turbulent times we've faced in our history," he said. "This simple act of positively influencing others will make us successful."

Champagne replaced Col. Leonard Isabelle, who is moving to a position at Joint Force Headquarters-Michigan.

Lt. Col. Saridakis replaced Champagne as 107th Fighter Squadron commander. Saridakis joined the Air National Guard in 1997, as a member of the 107th Fighter Wing in Massachusetts. He later served with the 110th Fighter Wing in Battle Creek, Mich., and the 175th Wing, Maryland. From 2006 to 2011 Saridakis served as the chief of the close attack branch at Headquarters, Air Combat Command, Joint Integration Division, responsible for enhancing the USAF's close air support, forward air controller, special operations, and other joint air-to-ground integration capabilities. Saridakis served on active duty 1989-1997, gaining his commission through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Cornell University. Saridakis earned his wings through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) at Sheppard AFB, Texas, in 1990. He has been with the 107th Fighter Squadron since 2009.

Upon his acceptance of the 107th Fighter Squadron flag, Saridakis told the Airmen of his new command, many of whom had just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan: "Your commitment and hard work is that which will sustain our combat readiness."

The leadership changes come as the unit braces against the unknown impacts of an Air Force budget proposal for fiscal year 2013 which has called for the deletion of the A-10 aircraft at Selfridge, a base which has hosted fighter aircraft for almost 100 years. Saridakis addressed this by telling the audience of family, friends, Base Community Council members, and elected officials, "The spirit of aviation will go from one aircraft to the next ... but we cannot afford a rest, and we cannot afford to focus on things we cannot control. We must be what our Air National Guard value statement says we are: equally capable, equally proficient, and equally accessible (to the active duty force)."

With approximately 1,700 Airmen assigned, the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard is the host organization at Selfridge, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker, an aerial refueler, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II, also known as the Warthog, which is an air-to-ground attack fighter. The Airmen at Selfridge support the Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command and the Air Force Special Operations Command. to In addition to the 127th Wing, Selfridge is home to numerous other military and federal agencies, which fly a variety of helicopters and small, light fixed-wing aircraft.

More information on the 127th Wing and Selfridge Air National Guard Base is available at www.127wg.ang.af.mil.

Source


Related photo from the Warthog News archives:



Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis runs through his pre-flight checklist after strapping into the cockpit of an A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., Feb. 14, 2012. Saridakis is a pilot with the 107th Fighter Squadron. The A-10s at Selfridge have resumed a regular local flying and training schedule, following the return of local Airmen from a deployment to Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt. Dan Heaton) Hi-res


Related news media coverage:

Facing loss of A-10 Thunderbolt II, Selfridge Air National Guard members welcome new commanders


By Dustin Block
MLive
Published: Saturday, March 10, 2012, 7:29 PM; Updated: Sunday, March 11, 2012, 1:23 PM

Guard members who operate the A-10 Thunderbolt II at Selfridge Air National Guard Base shouldn't focus on the possibility of the aircraft being eliminated from the base in 2013, according to the new commander of the 107th Fighter Squadron.

"The spirit of aviation will go from one aircraft to the next ... but we cannot afford a rest, and we cannot afford to focus on things we cannot control," said Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis, who took command of the fighter squadron on Saturday. "We must be what our Air National Guard value statement says we are: equally capable, equally proficient, and equally accessible (to the active duty force)."

Saridakis was joined by Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne participated at Saturday's change of command ceremony at Selfridge. Champagne is the new head of the 127th Operations Group. The 127th Operations Group and the 107th Fighter Squadron operate 24 Thunderbolts, also known as Warthogs, which would be deleted from Selfridge next year under a proposed Air Force budget. The move would eliminate 720 jobs at the base.

With approximately 1,700 Airmen assigned, the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard is the host organization at Selfridge, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker, an aerial refueler, and the Thunderbolt, which is an air-to-ground attack fighter. The airmen at Selfridge support the Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command and the Air Force Special Operations Command. to In addition to the 127th Wing, Selfridge is home to numerous other military and federal agencies, which fly a variety of helicopters and small, light fixed-wing aircraft.

Champagne earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force in 1987, serving on active duty through June 1996. Upon leaving active duty, he immediately joined the Michigan Air National Guard, serving as a full time member of the 107th Fighter Squadron. He has served the unit in various positions, including chief of weapons, chief of scheduling and training, chief of safety, director of operations and, most recently, as the squadron commander. Champagne is a command pilot with over 3,000 flying hours in the F-16 Falcon and over 500 flying hours in the A-10.

His service includes more than 500 hours of combat flying missions on six overseas deployments in support of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Desert Calm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. On Sept. 11, 2001, Champagne flew in the first fully armed combat air patrol over Detroit.

Champagne replaced Col. Leonard Isabelle, who is moving to a position at Joint Force Headquarters-Michigan.

Saridakis replaced Champagne as 107th Fighter Squadron commander. Saridakis joined the Air National Guard in 1997, as a member of the 107th Fighter Wing in Massachusetts. He later served with the 110th Fighter Wing in Battle Creek, Mich., and the 175th Wing, Maryland. From 2006 to 2011 Saridakis served as the chief of the close attack branch at Headquarters, Air Combat Command, Joint Integration Division, responsible for enhancing the USAF's close air support, forward air controller, special operations, and other joint air-to-ground integration capabilities.

Saridakis served on active duty 1989-1997, gaining his commission through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Cornell University. Saridakis earned his wings through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) at Sheppard AFB, Texas, in 1990. He has been with the 107th Fighter Squadron since 2009.

Source


Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne takes command at Selfridge


The Macomb Daily
Published: Sunday, March 11, 2012

Two combat veterans are taking on new duties with the Michigan Air National Guard.

The Guard's 127th Operations Group and 107th Fighter Squadron had a change of command ceremony on Saturday at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township.

Lt. Col. Douglas Champagne took command of the Operations Group, and Lt. Col. Emmanuel Saridakis took command of the Fighter Squadron in front of a formation of the group's pilots, maintenance and support personnel and other wing officers and airmen.

The group and squadron operate the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft.

On Sept. 11, 2001, Champagne flew in the first fully armed combat air patrol over Detroit. He replaces Col. Leonard Isabelle, who is moving to a position at Joint Force Headquarters-Michigan.

Champagne earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force in 1987, serving on active duty through June 1996. Upon leaving active duty, he immediately joined the Michigan Air National Guard, serving as a full-time member of the 107th Fighter Squadron. He has served the unit in various positions, including chief of weapons, chief of scheduling and training, chief of safety, director of operations and, most recently, as the squadron commander.

Champagne is a command pilot with over 3,000 flying hours in the F-16 Falcon and over 500 flying hours in the A-10. His service includes more than 500 hours of combat flying missions on six overseas deployments in support of operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Desert Calm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. On Sept. 11, 2001, Champagne flew in the first fully armed combat air patrol over Detroit.

After accepting the flag as the 127th Operations Group commander, Champagne issued a challenge to the assembled airmen.

"It's leadership that will take this group through the most turbulent times we've faced in our history," he said. "This simple act of positively influencing others will make us successful."

Champagne replaced Col. Leonard Isabelle, who is moving to a position at Joint Force Headquarters-Michigan.

Saridakis replaced Champagne as 107th Fighter Squadron commander. Saridakis joined the Air National Guard in 1997, as a member of the 107th Fighter Wing in Massachusetts. He later served with the 110th Fighter Wing in Battle Creek, and the 175th Wing, Maryland. From 2006 to 2011.

Saridakis served as the chief of the close attack branch at Headquarters, Air Combat Command, Joint Integration Division.

Saridakis served on active duty 1989-1997, gaining his commission through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps at Cornell University. He earned his wings through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training at Sheppard AFB, Texas, in 1990. He has been with the 107th Fighter Squadron since 2009.

The leadership changes come as the unit braces against the unknown impacts of an Air Force budget proposal for fiscal year 2013 which has called for the deletion of the A-10 aircraft at Selfridge, a base which has hosted fighter aircraft for almost 100 years.

"The spirit of aviation will go from one aircraft to the next ... but we cannot afford a rest, and we cannot afford to focus on things we cannot control, “Saridakis said. "We must be what our Air National Guard value statement says we are: equally capable, equally proficient, and equally accessible (to the active duty force)."

With approximately 1,700 airmen assigned, the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard is the host organization at Selfridge, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker, an aerial refueler, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II, also known as the Warthog, which is an air-to-ground attack fighter.

In addition to the 127th Wing, Selfridge is home to numerous other military and federal agencies, which fly a variety of helicopters and small, light fixed-wing aircraft.

Source


Please note: This post will be further updated soon.

Unique shot of 188th Fighter Wing's Boss Bird taken at D-M during Operation Snowbird

Released by 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs as part of their news article It's ORI "go time"



Original photo caption: An A-10 prepares to land on the flightline after completing its mission at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Feb., 14. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Michael Washburn) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0188, marked 188 FW as 188th Fighter Wing's Boss Bird or Wing King, from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas Air National Guard), Fort Smith. This "Hog" was part of a 188th FW aircraft package which participated in Operation Snowbird at D-M in preparation of the "Flying Razorback's" upcoming Afghanistan deployment this summer. And from my viewpoint: This shot is unique due to the industrial area in the background. Anybody who can/will tell me some more about this "smoking" site?

Saturday, March 10, 2012

QA helps improve maintenance efficiency

Released by 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



3/8/2012 - SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany – Staff Sgt. Michael Selfridge, right, 52nd Maintenance Operations Squadron aircraft maintenance inspector, inspects the hot-pit refueling of an A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 81st Fighter Squadron ramp three here March 6. The AMXS quality assurance section is made up of eight certified maintenance inspectors who inspect 81st and 480th Fighter Squadron aircraft maintenance processes. Quality assurance modernizes the Air Force's aircraft maintenance and training by tracking maintenance performance against metrics to improve efficiency, production, and reliability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dillon Davis) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 82-0654 (still marked wrong as 81-0654 on it's tail!) from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany. Crew inscriptions: PLT: CAPT PATRICK PARRISH, DCC: SSGT JESSE WILLIAMS, ACC: SRA RUSSELL FREEMAN

Source

Thursday, March 8, 2012

From the Frontlines: Senior Airman Shawn Watters

by Heidi Hunt
509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs



SOUTHWEST ASIA -- As an aircraft electrical and environmental systems technician, Senior Airman Shawn Watters, 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, is currently serving in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and is assigned to phase dock where he and his team conduct more than 500 inspection hours on the A-10 Thunderbolt II. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Heather Skinkle) Hi-res

Note: Senior Airman Shawn Watters poses in front of A-10C 79-0109 from the 303rd Fighter Squadron, currently combat-deployed for OEF as part of an A-10C "Total Force", together with two other jets of this squadron. Maybe this picture was taken at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.

3/1/2012 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The anatomy of an aircraft system contains miles of wire, thousands of sensors, hundreds of dials, indicators and many switches.

Senior Airman Shawn Watters, 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft electrical and environmental systems technician, is currently serving in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and is assigned to phase dock where he and his team conduct more than 500 inspection hours on the A-10 Thunderbolt II.

"We ensure our systems remain fully operational during inspections and fix any discrepancies," said Watters. "A lot of preventative maintenance is carried out in the phase dock."

Watters departed two days after Christmas in 2011 and said his mission as an E&E technician is to primarily handle the jet's crucial systems such as the flight deck pressurization, landing gear, internal and external lighting and the electrical systems.

"We also assist the fuels and engines shops and the crew chiefs with various troubleshooting," Watters said.

"Additionally, we run the liquid oxygen farm on base where we fill oxygen tanks for the C-130 Hercules who make medical evacuations," he said.

Watters said he typically works more than 12 hours a day to complete assigned tasks at the phase dock.

"Working on the A-10 is amazing because it directly supports the Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen on the ground fighting."

If there isn't a lot of work, the team usually checks on their programs such as foreign-object damage ensuring they are up-to-date.

While his duties at Whiteman AFB differ he said he enjoys what he does.

"At Whiteman I am a flightline environmental and electrical technician, so the job is very different," Watters said. "At home I troubleshoot more often and I have to problem solve quickly. The flightline is more unpredictable than the phase dock, because on the line you never know when work is going to occur."

Watters is set to return to Whiteman AFB this summer and said the best part of his deployment thus far is the mission and the people.

"I know that what I am doing helps ensure my brothers in arms come home safe," Watters said. "I love that my mission is primarily troop support and that is a good feeling.

"I work alongside people from the 442nd Fighter Wing and our unit is like a family; they have been great," he said. "I am fortunate to have met so many new people."

In addition to his deployed workload, Watters said he volunteers as a mail carrier and for litter carrier duty.

"We carry wounded troops from the hospital to the aircraft that is taking them out of the war zone," he said.

Overall, Watters said he feels lucky that he's had the opportunity to serve and said the next chance he gets he wants to return to support the troops and the mission overseas.

"It feels good that I'm helping fight against terrorism and now have the opportunity to support Operation Enduring Freedom ... that is why we are here."

Although Watters said he is excited about his deployment he said he misses his family and friends and is looking forward to seeing them.

Source

Please note: On March 7, 2012, this news article has been re-published on USAF's public main website as Maintainer plys his trade in Afghanistan, and as a feature of the "Through Airmen's Eyes" series on AF.mil. These stories and commentaries focus on a single Airman, highlighting their Air Force story. But at least on the moment, this news story is'nt shared on 442nd Fighter Wing's public website.

Please also note: This news story refers to the original OEF combat deployment to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the currently deployed A-10C "Total Force" team with 18 jets moved to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Investigators: Pilot error, weather contributed to A-10 crash near Spangdahlem

By Jennifer H. Svan
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 6, 2012

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany — The pilot whose A-10 Thunderbolt II crashed on returning to Spangdahlem Air Base after a routine training mission last year became spatially disoriented while flying in thick clouds and lost control of his aircraft, an Air Force accident investigation board has found.

Lt. Col. Scott Hurrelbrink ejected less than two seconds before the $17 million aircraft hit the ground nose down and burned in a grass field just north of the sparsely populated town of Laufeld, near the city of Wittlich, according to the board's report, which Spangdahlem officials released Monday.

The board found "clear and convincing evidence that the cause of the mishap was human factor error," the report states. But investigators determined that poor weather, the pilot's lack of recent experience flying in close formation in heavy clouds and procedural errors on the part of the pilot and the flight lead also contributed.

"Flying on the wing in the weather is a specific maneuver which commonly causes spatial disorientation, and if minimally practiced will require even greater concentration on the part of a pilot," the report states.

Hurrelbrink was not named in the report, which the Air Force made available online, but he was identified by Spangdahlem officials after the accident.

A day after the crash, base officials said Hurrelbrink's injuries were not serious. But a base spokeswoman said in an email Tuesday that the pilot "sustained significant injuries," an assessment also in the report.

Base officials provided no other information Tuesday about the pilot, only that he is no longer assigned to the 81st Fighter Squadron.

Lt. Gen. Stephen Mueller, U.S. Air Forces in Europe vice commander, appointed Col. Peter Davey, the 603rd Air Operations Center commander at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, to be the board president and lead the investigation, which was conducted from June 1 to June 24, according to the report.

The crash occurred on the afternoon of April 1, after Hurrelbrink and the flight lead, who was not identified in the report, descended into clouds using the plane's instruments to guide them while returning to Spangdahlem.

Hurrelbrink lost sight of the flight lead at about 3,700 feet in what was described as a “thick cloud deck with poor visibility,” the report says.

Since Hurrelbrink "had to concentrate on the lead aircraft while flying formation, he had limited time to cross-check his own instruments and had no visible horizon," Davey wrote in explaining his opinion of the crash's cause. "Though this is a routine required skill, it still sets the conditions that led to the spatial disorientation."

Spatial disorientation can occur when a pilot cannot correctly interpret position or direction due to clouds, low-visibility or other conditions that prohibit the pilot from orienting to a visual horizon, 2nd Lt. Stephani Schafer, a base spokewoman, explained in an email.

After calling "lost wingman," Hurrelbrink banked left 15 degrees for only five seconds, instead of 15 seconds, a procedure designed to separate the aircraft and help the pilot orient his aircraft, among other things, the report found. Though the flight lead acknowledged the pilot's "lost wingman" call, he failed to communicate key parameters to Hurrelbrink, such as his own altitude, heading and airspeed, according to the report.

After emerging "from the clouds inverted, 60 degrees nose low" at about 1,500 feet, the pilot "immediately experienced 'ground rush' " — a visual misperception of how quickly the ground is approaching — "and made an initial attempt to pull to the horizon," the report says.

Assessing that he could not recover from the dive, the pilot "released the stick to eject," the report says.

The pilot appears lucky to have survived the crash. An accident simulation showed there were about two seconds from pulling the eject handle to impact with the ground, with the pilot landing less than 50 yards from the impact crater, according to the report. Fire damage to the parachute showed the canopy was not fully inflated at the time of exposure to the aircraft explosion, indicating Hurrelbrink did not get full deceleration, according to the report.

The report also notes the efforts of local residents on the scene. Several residents of Laufeld witnessed the crash and contacted emergency responders. Despite the proximity of the burning wreckage, the first two residents on scene cut the pilot's parachute lines and harness to disconnect him from the parachute and remained with him until professional help arrived.

The plane was carrying 1,150 rounds of training ammunition, Air Force officials said.

The environmental cleanup costs have yet to be determined, the report says.

The twin-engine, single-seat A-10, also known as the Warthog, is used to provide close air support for ground forces by attacking tanks and other targets. Since 2003, A-10s from the 81st Fighter Squadron have deployed four times to Afghanistan. In the month prior to the mishap, the squadron executed a short-notice deployment in support of operations in Libya, according to the report.

The Air Force plans to deactivate the 81st as part of proposed budget cuts in fiscal 2013.

Source

Col. Eric Overturf promoted to brigadier general

Released by 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Col. Eric S. Overturf, 442nd Fighter Wing commander, was promoted to brigadier general in a ceremony at Whiteman Air Force Base on March 3, 2012. The 442nd Fighter Wing is an A-10 Thunderbolt II Air Force Reserve unit at Whiteman. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Lauren Padden) Hi-res

Please note: More pictures will be uploaded soon.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

52 FW releases AIB report on A-10C crash in Germany

Relased by 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/5/2012 - SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Spangdahlem Air Base officials released the results of their investigation into the April 1, 2011 crash of an A-10C Thunderbolt II, north of Laufeld, Germany as it returned to base on a training mission.

Concluding the investigation, the board president determined that the cause of the Spangdahlem-based A-10C crash was human factor error.

"Specifically, the mishap pilot suffered from spatial disorientation while flying in close formation on an instrument approach in weather. The mishap pilot broke out of the weather, recognized the unusual attitude, attempted briefly to recover the mishap aircraft, experienced "ground rush" and ejected based on the unrecoverable parameters. Additionally, the Board also found other contributing factors to include vision restricted by meteorological conditions, procedural error, and recency of experience."

The pilot survived the crash by ejecting before the aircraft impacted an unpopulated area near Laufeld. The aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact.

The USAFE vice-commander, Lt. Gen. Stephen Mueller, convened an Accident Investigation Board to investigate the crash, and designated Col. Peter Davey, 603rd Air Operations Center Commander, as the board president.

The convening authority approved the board president's report without comments.

The primary purpose of the board was to provide a publicly releasable report of the facts and circumstances surrounding the accident. An executive summary of the report is available at http://usaf.aib.law.af.mil/index.html.

The entire report is available at http://usaf.aib.law.af.mil/. For more information contact the USAFE Public Affairs Office at 011-49-6371-47-6558 or pa.ops@ramstein.af.mil.

Source

Monday, March 5, 2012

PRESS RELEASE: 188th Fighter Wing announces new wing, vice commanders

By 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/4/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Brig. Gen. Dwight Balch, Arkansas Air National Guard commander, announced March 4 that new leadership changes were on the horizon for the 188th Fighter Wing, an A-10 Thunderbolt II unit.

Balch announced that current wing commander, Col. Thomas Anderson, will relinquish command to Col. Mark Anderson during a formal change of command ceremony scheduled for April 14 at 1 p.m. at the 188th's Ebbing Air National Guard Base. Col. Mark Anderson currently serves as the 188th's vice commander.

Col. Thomas Anderson announced at the 188th Fighter Wing commander's call that he had initially agreed to serve for three years of active duty with the 188th. His tour was extended to six years of active duty and his orders are ending in April 2012.

"It's been a great ride and a very humbling and rewarding opportunity to serve the men and women of the 188th Fighter Wing," Col. Thomas Anderson said. "This has been my passion and my home since 1988. I remain committed to the Airmen of the 188th and to the Arkansas Air National Guard as I move on to a new assignment at headquarters, Arkansas Air National Guard."

Balch also announced that Lt. Col. Pete Gauger will be named the 188th's vice commander. Gauger currently serves as the 188th Mission Support Group commander. Current 188th Communications Flight commander, Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner, was named Gauger's successor as the new 188th Mission Support Group commander.

All changes will be effective April 14, 2012. More information will be released as it becomes available.

Source

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Spangdahlem A-10C crash report released

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

It's official now: The "Hog" which crashed on April 1, 2011, near Laufeld, Germany, was A-10C 81-0963 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany.



Executive Summary



Full Narrative

Please note: This breaking news will be updated soon.

355th Fighter Wing A-10Cs caught at D-M during Heritage Flight training March 2, 2012

At Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, Warthog News contributor Ned Harris from the United States had the opportunity to take the following shots:



Thunderbolts of two generations: P-47 Thunderbolt together with an A-10C Thunderbolt II from the 355th Fighter Wing. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size



Thunderbolts of two generations: P-47 Thunderbolt together with an A-10C Thunderbolt II from the 355th Fighter Wing. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size



P-47 Thunderbolt "Tarheel Hal". (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size

Please note: More pictures will be uploaded soon.

104th Fighter Squadron A-10C caught at D-M February 29, 2012

At Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, Warthog News contributor Ned Harris from the United States had the opportunity to take the following shots of an A-10C from the 104th Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG), Martin State AP:



A-10C 79-0108. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size



A-10C 79-0108. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size

Question: Are there 104th Fighter Squadron A-10Cs to participate in Operation Snowbird?

355th Fighter Wing A-10Cs caught at D-M February 29, 2012

At Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, Warthog News contributor Ned Harris from the United States had the opportunity to take the following shots:



A-10C 79-0190 from the 358th Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size



A-10C 78-0657 from the 358th Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size



Lobo's RTB. Two A-10s over Catalina Mountains. (Photo by Ned Harris) Full size

Please note: A lot of more related pictures will be uploaded soon.

Saturday, March 3, 2012

ATK Receives a Fourth Contract Option for Continued Production of 30mm PGU Ammunition

ATK's Domestic and International Awards for 30mm Ammunition Exceed $29 Million in FY12
An ATK press release
Feb 29, 2012

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ATK (NYSE: ATK) was recently awarded a fourth contract option to produce 30mm PGU-15A/B cartridges for the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island Contracting Center (RICC), Rock Island, Ill. The order is a part of a multi-year contract originally signed in July 2007. ATK's worldwide sales of 30mm ammunition in the current fiscal year now exceed $29 million.

ATK's 30mm PGU-series target practice ammunition is specially designed for training applications. These cartridges, currently in use with the 30mm GAU-8/A Gatling gun on the U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthog close-support aircraft provide cost-effective, ballistic-matched training rounds for improved warfighter performance.

"We are proud to continue our role as the primary provider of PGU-15 ammunition in support of the U. S. Air Force's A-10 aircraft," said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapon Systems. "This round plays an integral role in training A-10 aircrews to develop and maintain essential air-to-ground combat skills. ATK supports this program through the delivery of high quality products, outstanding value and great customer service."

ATK's Mesa, Ariz.-based Integrated Weapon Systems division will produce the rounds at its facilities in Radford, Va. and Rocket Center, W. Va. Delivery of the optioned rounds is set to begin this year.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Source

Product info:
30mm GAU-8/A Ammunition

Friday, March 2, 2012

Deale assumes command of 455th AEW

by Tech. Sgt. Vernon Cunningham
455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs



BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — Brig. Gen. Thomas Deale (right) accepts the guidon from Maj. Gen. Tod Wolters during the 455th Air Expeditonary Wing change of command ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Mar. 1, 2012. Deale is the 455th AEW commander and Wolters, the presiding officer, is the commander of the 9th Air and Space Expeditonary Task Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ericka Engblom) Hi-res

3/1/2012 - BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- Airmen of the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing welcomed their new commander during a change of command ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, March 1, 2012.

Brig. Gen. Thomas Deale, previously assigned as commander of the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, assumed command from Maj. Gen. Darryl Roberson.

Maj. Gen. Tod Wolters, 9th Air and Space Expeditionary Task Force-Afghanistan commander, presided over the ceremony.

"He possesses a unique combination of A-10 technical expertise and unmatched interpersonal skills," said Wolters. "We are absolutely convinced that this is the right time, the right place, and the right setting for Brigadier General Thomas Deale to take the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing to new heights."

Wolters further emphasized how Deale's new mission was well matched by addressing how the A-10 Thunderbolt is the number one weapon in the air domain of Regional Command-East and Deale has piloted an A-10, commanded an A-10 war-fighting operations group, and commanded two A-10 war-fighting operational wings.

"Brigadier General Deale will be a leader, from the front, with an unmatched degree of lethality that will render the educated enemy hopeless," he said.

Deale accepted command of the 455th AEW and rendered his first salute to a formation of Airmen who represented the wing.

During his remarks he thanked Wolters for the continued trust and confidence. He also thanked Roberson for his leadership and personal sacrifices while leading the 455th AEW to the forefront of the Air Force. He also thanked the Coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and joint service partners.

"Being selected to command in the United States Air Force is truly an honor," said Deale. "There is no higher calling, no higher privilege for an Airman than to command in combat. And to be called upon to do it twice is an even rarer privilege, and an opportunity that I am honored to have."

He also acknowledged the proud heritage of the 455th AEW and thanked the men and women of the wing for their service. In addition, he spoke about how the wing will continue, together, to develop as Airmen, professionals and warriors as critical airpower is delivered in support of the coalition team.

"Always remember why we are here," said Deale. "To support our coalition and NATO forces in combat operations, to help develop the Afghan National Security Forces, and ultimately for our coalition to transition security responsibility to the Afghan Government. Ultimately, their success is our success."

Roberson's next assignment is Director, Strategic Planning, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Programs, Headquarters United States Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, DC.

Source



See also:
Official USAF online biography of Brigadier General Thomas H. Deale (as of March 2012). A hi-res picture is currently not available.

Note: This significant and unusual change of command took place shortly after the switch of the currently deployed A-10 "Total Force" aircraft package from Kandahar to Bagram Airfield as the result of a so-called "CAS reset". It looks to me like the A-10C mission will dominate Bagram air operations for the next future, alongside the F-15E Strike Eagle mission. And Brig. Gen. Thomas H. Deale will be on the right time on the right place. As already reported by Warthog News, the currently deployed F-16C ANG "Rainbow Team" switched from Bagram to Kandahar Airfield.

BTW: Maj. Gen. Tod Wolters, 9th Air and Space Expeditionary Task Force-Afghanistan commander, emphasized that "the A-10 Thunderbolt is the number one weapon in the air domain of Regional Command-East". That makes me happy, especially due to proposed further A-10C cuts. And for the "grunts" on the ground (U.S. Army soldiers, United States Marines, members of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) teams or NATO units, the "Hog" is still their WEAPON OF CHOICE!!!



Picture of Brigadier General Thomas A. Deale as of December 2011:
Hi-res Source

Related info:
451st AEW welcomes new commander
Airmen bid farewell to 451st AEW commander









From the history books:



Col. Thomas "Big" Deale prepares for his A-10 fini flight with A-10 80-0251 December 2, 2009, at Osan AB, Republic of Korea. Col. Deale will relinquish command of the wing to Col. Patrick Malackowski in a change of command ceremony December 7. After serving as the 51st Fighter Wing commander for 14 months, Col. Deale was selected to become the Director of Colonel Management at the Pentagon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephenie Wade) Hi-res

See:
Mustang One's last ride

BTW: It's a pleasure to see old "Hog" drivers in prominent command positions within AFCENT on the frontlines... My best wishes to Brig. Gen. Thomas Deale for his new job!

Arkansas Delegation Questions Plan For 188th Drones

By Peter Urban
Stephens Washington Bureau
Times Record
5:55 pm - February 29, 2012

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor, D-Ark., said Wednesday that the Air Force should expand Fort Smith's 188th Fighter Wing mission to keep the "Flying Razorbacks" and add unmanned drones.

In its 2013 budget request, the Air Force has proposed replacing the A-10 mission with one that would operate Predator/Reaper drones.

While the entire Arkansas delegation is focused on saving the A-10, Pryor suggested Wednesday that the choice doesn't have to be between the two missions.

"I don't want to sound greedy, but we want both," Pryor said on a conference call with Arkansas reporters. "We can totally justify why both should be there."

Fort Smith provides an ideal setting for both missions given its proximity to the Fort Chaffee training facility and dedicated military air space over the Ozarks, Pryor said.

"We could and should do both for all the same reasons that the A-10 makes sense," Pryor said.

Kevin Wear, chairman of the 188th Steering Committee, agreed that the Air Force should be adding missions to Fort Smith given its unique assets.

"If decisions were being made based on objective and transparent criteria, I believe the Air Force would be looking at expanding the missions there as well as having a definite eye on the 188th as a future home to the Joint Strike Fighter," Wear said.

As to the battle for the A-10, Wear said the Steering Committee is cautiously optimistic that the Arkansas delegation will succeed in sending Air Force planners "back to the drawing board."

The Arkansas congressional delegation on Wednesday sent a letter to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta seeking more details into the decision making process behind removing the A-10 "Flying Razorbacks" from Fort Smith.

In the letter, the delegation stressed that members have "serious concerns" regarding the criteria the Air Force used to reach its decision.

Pryor, Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Reps. Mike Ross, D-Prescott, Steve Womack, R-Rogers, Tim Griffin, R-Little Rock, and Rick Crawford, R-Jonesboro, signed the letter. The letter requests a response by March 12.

Womack, whose district includes Fort Smith, also wrote a separate letter to Panetta, noting the 188th "outperforms in all major objective categories, and it is one of the most-cost-effective flying units in the Air Force."

Womack stated that the Air National Guard represents 21 percent of the total Air Force, but 59 percent of the aircraft cuts in the 2013 plan.

"The excessive nature of these cuts to the Air National Guard — not just the 188th Fighter Wing — doesn't make sense," Womack's letter states.

Aside from voicing their concerns with the Pentagon, Pryor said, the delegation is reaching out to their colleagues to impress on them the value of keeping the A-10 mission in Fort Smith, where the 188th Fighter Wing has proven to be the most cost-effective and best trained.

"I think we have some very good arguments on why the 188th should stay right were it is. Truth is on our side," he said.

But Pryor cautioned that saving the mission remains a difficult task given the short time period for rallying support. Congressional leaders are hoping to complete 2013 appropriations bills before the end of September.

"We have a fairly short time frame here because this is a budget matter. We need to deal with this in the next two or three months, so the pressure is on," Pryor said.

The 188th is currently authorized about 1,000 airmen, with a full-time staff of about 350 and 21 assigned A-10 aircraft.

On Tuesday, the Arkansas state Senate passed Senate Resolution 1 by Sen. Jake Files, R-Fort Smith, which asks the U.S. Department of the Air Force, the U.S. Department of Defense and the National Guard Bureau to keep the 188th in Fort Smith. Also Tuesday, the Fort Smith Airport Commission adopted a resolution supporting the 188th.

Source

Thursday, March 1, 2012

US Air Force A-10s in Korea Complete 30 Years of Service

by John A. Okonski
51st Fighter Wing Historian



Front page of Osan's newspaper MiG Alley Flyer from Sept. 15, 1995. Osan's paper changed it's name to MiG Alley Flyer in 1982.

2/28/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Although President Obama's Fiscal Year 2013 Department of Defense budget proposal recently presented to Congress calls for inactivation of five of the 16 A-10C Thunderbolt II squadrons from the U.S. Air Force active, reserve, and air national guard inventory, the 25th Fighter Squadron at Osan Air Base will remain a vital air asset in the defense of the Republic of Korea.

The 25th FS became the last A-10A unit of the U.S. Air Force total force components to complete conversion to the A-10C in 2011. But, more importantly, the A-10 in the ROK recently reached an important milestone. Thirty years ago on Jan. 28 1982, the first two A-10As assigned to the 25th FS landed at Osan Air Base. These aircraft served as trainer aircraft for maintenance crews as the ROK Government completed construction of facilities at Suwon Air Base to serve as the main operating base for the A-10A.

A little more than a month later, on March 3, 1982, the first six operational A-10As landed at Suwon to begin a new era of deterrence and offensive firepower of the US Air Force in the ROK. By January 1983, the 25th FS was equipped with 26 A-10As to include the two trainer aircraft.

The A-10 was the first U.S. Air Force aircraft specially designed and built for close air support of ground forces. Its development resulted from the deadly experiences of numerous jet fighters and US Army helicopters being shot down over South Vietnam. The U.S. Air Force consequently initiated a design study in 1967 for a low-cost attack aircraft that could have long loiter time, low-speed maneuverability, massive cannon firepower, and extreme survivability. Fairchild-Republic, which was awarded the contract on March 1, 1973, built the aircraft essentially around its 30mm GAU-8/A Gatling gun that can fire 3,900 rounds a minute. Coupled with a large ordnance capacity, the A-10 is particularly effective against enemy armor and tanks.

Discussions between the U.S. and ROK Governments to base an A-10 squadron in the ROK had been ongoing since the mid 1970s as the A-10A entered the U.S. Air Force inventory on March 20, 1976 with the 355th Tactical Fighter Wing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Two 355 TFW A-10As deployed to Osan AB 15 months later on June 19, 1977 to participate in a combined ROK-US exercise to demonstrate its capabilities. Col. Ralph E. Adams, 355 TFS vice commander, had the distinction of landing the first A-10A in the ROK.

Earlier as the aircraft was being built, the U.S. experienced an inglorious withdrawal of military forces from South Vietnam in April 1975 followed by the fatal U.S.S Mayaguez incident off the coast of Cambodia in May 1975. These events greatly affected the American public, and in 1976, elected Jimmy Carter as president who, among his foreign affairs positions, advocated for withdrawal of all U.S. military forces from the ROK. Unlike the Vietnam setback, debate within Congress ensued during the next three years over this course of action. Later events proved the deliberate debate fortuitous regarding the long-standing U.S. military role in the ROK.

In early 1979, Soviet Union military forces entered Afghanistan. This event resulted in the Carter Administration reversing its position, and rethinking its military strategy in the Pacific and Far East. At the 12th ROK-U.S. Security Consultative Meetings held in Seoul in October 1979, Secretary of Defense Harold Brown announced that the U.S. would base an A-10A squadron in the ROK by the early 1980s with Suwon AB selected as the bed-down site.

The announcement resulted in Pacific Air Forces activating the 25th Tactical Fighter Squadron on February 1, 1981 in an unmanned status with assignment to the 51st Composite Wing (Tactical) at Osan AB. This move was preparatory to arrival of the A-10A. As the date neared for arrival of the A-10A on the ROK, the 25 TFS became fully manned with Maj Harry J. Keiling Jr as the first 25 TFS commander at Suwon AB. He flew the second A-10A into Osan AB on January 28, 1982 after Col. Eugene G. Myers, 51 CW (T) commander, landed the first A-10A on that date. Both members later flew the first two operational A-10As into Suwon AB.

Between March 3, 1982 and September 30, 1989, the 25 TFS operated with the 6151st Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron from Suwon AB. On September 23, 1989, the 25 TFS flew its last A-10A sortie from Suwon AB. Earlier, the squadron transferred 13 A-10As to the 19th Tactical Air Support Squadron between January and March 1989. The 19 TASS, assigned to the 5th Tactical Air Control Group at Osan AB, had been flying the OV-10 Bronco which, in turn, transferred its aircraft to stateside units. After September 30, 1989, the 25 TFS returned to unmanned status and finally was inactivated on July 31, 1990.

The 19 TASS later was assigned to the 51st Operations Group on October 1, 1990 as part of the service-wide "Objective Wing" reorganization directed by Air Force chief of staff, Gen. Merrill A. McPeak. Refinements to the "Objective Wing" concept continued over the following 3 years. McPeak further advocated that the most historic units replace newer unit designations. As a result, the 25th FS, which had been a charter unit of the 51st Fighter Group before World War II, replaced the 19 TASS designation on October 1, 1993.

Even though the A-10 proved its worth in combat during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, some U.S. Air Force planners wanted to retire the aircraft given extensive reductions in the military during the post-Cold War period. However, the A-10 survived these efforts, and has continued to serve exemplary during operations in Afghanistan.

During the 1990s, one measure the U.S. Air Force took to provide a more cost effective force structure given funding constraints was to inactivate a number of combat squadrons, but increase the number of aircraft in its remaining units. In 1995, the 25th FS went from a 12 primary aircraft authorized unit to 18. Four years later in 1999, the 25th FS again increased in authorized aircraft to 24.

Although the A-10 has been in the US Force inventory for more than 35 years, the US Air Force sought to extend its service life and improve combat capabilities. The A-10 service life has been extended through the Service Life Extension Program. Its combat capabilities have been upgraded with the latest weapons, targeting, and avionics technology through such programs as the low altitude safety and targeting enhancement system, Pave Penny laser tracking pod, liteningadvanced targeting pod, and precision engagement (PE) modifications. The latter program resulted in all A-10As being redesignated as A-10Cs.

Source

AOR happenings

Released by 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs. Posted: 3/1/2012



Senior Airman Joshua Good, 442nd Munitions Flight technician, was recognized as an outstanding performer by Lt. Col. Stephen Nester, 303rd Fighter Squadron Commander, on Feb. 8, 2012. Good's accomplishments include the following: - Guided majority of Munitions Line Delivery's daily operations; took on supervisory tasking--100% QA Evaluations passed - Commanded 60 explosive operations; transported 85K lbs NEW incident free--combat sorties 100% on-time - Advocated daily vehicle safety inspections; ensured serviceability of $1.2M in vehicle fleet --94.4% serviceability - Delivered to 18 A-10Cs; oversaw and led safe commute of 800lbs NEW of munitions assets--4 GBU-38'S on target - Regulated MQ-1 Predators/MQ-9 Reapers; propelling 43 total AGM-114s to F/L--400 total on-time combat sorties This young traditional reservist has had real influence on his peers. The 442nd Munitions Flight is part of the 442nd Fighter Wing, an A-10 Thunderbolt II reserve unit at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res