Airman Spotlight: 1st Lt. Joseph Curran

Released by 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1st Lt. Joseph Curran, 25th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Raymond Mills) Hi-res

Note: 1st Lt. Joseph Curran poses in front of A-10C 81-0971 from the 25th Fighter Squadron.

by Staff Reports 10/29/2012 - Airman Spotlight -- Name: Joe "SCAB" Curran

Unit: 25th Fighter Squadron

Job title: A-10C Attack Pilot

Job description and its impact on the overall mission: Attack pilot trained in close air support and forward air control. Within the Republic of Korea we provide a deterrent to North Korean aggression and support to friendly ground units stationed along the DMZ.
Time in the military: 3 ½ Years

DEROS: July 2013

Family: Mom & Dad (Steve & Peggy), Identical Twin Brother (Dan), Younger Sister (Bridget)

Hometown: Naperville, IL

Hobbies: Outdoors, running, reading

Why did you join the military? A desire to serve my country and to be a part of an organization that is larger than any single individual. It's a true honor to be able to serve and work alongside the finest men and women our country has to offer.

Where do you see yourself in 10 or 20 years? I would like to be an instructor pilot in the A-10.

What do you do for fun here? Fire the GAU-8 30mm Gatling gun while flying the world's greatest close air support fighter.

What's your favorite Air Force memory or story? A memory that stands out is having my Grandpa Bob pin on my 2nd lieutenant bars during commissioning from the Academy. He was an enlisted weapons troop stationed first at Lowry AFB and then Nellis AFB. I grew up seeing pictures of him on the flight line with F-51, F-80, and F-86 fighters and his stories and support were a driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force.

What accomplishment are you most proud of? Earning all conference honors as a track & cross country athlete during college and being selected to fly the A-10 Warthog.

Who are your role models? My mom and dad. Nothing I have accomplished would have been possible without their unconditional support and guidance.

Source

British JTACS train with Moody pilots, A-10s

Released by 23rd Wing Public Affairs


10/30/2012 - British army Flight Lieutenant Steve Burr checks and Sgt. Christopher Smith, both joint terminal attack controllers with the 7th Armored Brigade out of Germany, review information on a video downlink receiver during Exercise Flying Rhino in South Georgia, Oct. 23, 2012. The JTACs combined their training requirements with those of 74th and 75th Fighter Squadron pilots to simulate missions faced while deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jamal D. Sutter) Hi-res

Source (including 10 photos)

Please note: This photo release doesn't include any A-10C shot.

Moody hosts successful open house

Released by 23rd Wing Public Affairs


10/29/2012 - An A-10C Thunderbolt II and two F-4 Phantom IIs perform a Heritage Flight during the Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Legacy of Liberty Open House air show Oct. 27, 2012. The U.S Air Force Heritage Flight program presents the evolution of air power by flying today's state-of-the-art fighter aircraft in close formation with vintage fighter aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Douglas Ellis) Hi-res


10/29/2012 - An A-10C Thunderbolt II flies overhead during the Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Legacy of Liberty Open House air show Oct. 27, 2012. The air show also included 15 different aerial demonstrations, a weapons load demonstration and a jet bus among other acts and displays. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Douglas Ellis) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0140 from the 75th Fighter Squadron.


10/29/2012 - An A-10C Thunderbolt II provides close air support during the Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Legacy of Liberty Open House air show Oct. 27, 2012. The combat search and rescue demonstration showcased Moody's capabilities in deployed environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Douglas Ellis) Hi-res

Note: The explosions on the ground are just pyrotechnics...

Source (including 15 photos)

Moody honors 71 years of Flying Tigers history

Released by 23rd Wing Public Affairs


10/29/2012 - A formation of A-10C Thunderbolt II's fly over Grand Bay Bombing and Gunnery Range during a training demonstration for the guests of the 2012 Flying Tigers Reunion at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Oct. 25, 2012. The reunion included an A-10 training demonstration, a tour of the base and a reunion dinner. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Olivia Bumpers) Hi-res

Source (including 9 photos)

Barksdale Airmen host British visitors

Released by 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs


10/29/2012 - (L to R) U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Thomas Cruzan, who is a pilot assigned to the 47th Fighter Squadron, discusses wartime capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II with Mark Young, John Hutchins, Alan Cole, David Rickwood, Stewart Dempster and Alan Kilham in the A-10 Hangar at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 26, 2012. The British visitors to Barksdale are members of the RAF Fairford Aviation Society in England. They will also attend the "Wings Over Houston Air Show" at the Ellington Airport during their visit to the United States. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jeff Walston) Hi-res

Source (including 3 photos)

Note: Pictured in the background at left is A-10C 79-0149 from the 47th Fighter Squadron.

Homebound ANG "Rainbow Team" A-10Cs caught at Lajes

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Updated October 29th, 2012

At Lajes Field, Azores, Warthog News contributor André Inácio from Portugal had the opportunity to catch some A-10Cs of the homebound ANG "Rainbow Team" during stopover late this week.

On October 25th, 2012, a flight of 5 A-10Cs from the Arkansas ANG arrived with callsigns CUBE51 to 55, supported by BLUE04 which was tanker KC-10 79-1947.

By serial number order:
A-10C 78-0614, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0616, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0621, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0630, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0639, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)

By arrival order: 78-0621, 78-0614, 78-0639, 78-0630, 78-0616

In the morning of October 26th, 2012, three of these aircraft, together with an A-10C from the Maryland ANG, departed Lajes Field for Continental United States (CONUS)

By serial number order:
A-10C 78-0614, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0616, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0639, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
A-10C 78-0682, 104th FS, 175th Wg (Maryland ANG)

By departure order: 78-0682, 78-0614, 78-0639, 78-0616

Please note: I'm really surprised by this late stopover. Related to some of the previous info, I thought all of the 18 ANG "Hogs", recently deployed to Afghanistan, already returned back home. Many thanks to André for sharing these very important photo proofs on Warthog News! Additional background info will be uploaded later this evening.

Update October 29, 2010:
Yesterday, André told me via email: On October 14th, 2012, only 13 of the 18 combat-deployed A-10Cs arrived at Lajes on their way back home. Unfortunately, he was very busy with work on that day and he doesn't had the opportunity to take any pictures. On October 16th only 12 A-10Cs departed for Continental United States (CONUS). Left behind on the ground was A-10C 78-0682 from the Maryland ANG. On October 26th only 4 A-10Cs departed Lajes (as pictured), and left behind on the ground were A-10Cs 78-0621 and 78-0630,  both of them from the Arkansas ANG. They need another tanker asset to return to CONUS.


A-10C 78-0621 from the 184th Fighter Squadron arrives. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0614 from the 184th Fighter Squadron arrives. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0639 from the 184th Fighter Squadron arrives. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0630 from the 184th Fighter Squadron arrives. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0616 from the 184th Fighter Squadron arrives. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0682 from the 104th Fighter Squadron departs. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0614 from the 184th Fighter Squadron departs. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0639 from the 184th Fighter Squadron departs. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size


A-10C 78-0616 from the 184th Fighter Squadron departs. (Photo by André Inácio) Full size

PHOTOS: Pilot for a Day

Released by 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

10/26/2012 - Eight-year-old Larry Ronstadt smiles as host pilot U.S. Air Force Maj. Richard Benda, 357th Fighter Squadron, explains the cockpit of the A-10 Thunderbolt II on Oct 25, 2012, during the Pilot for a Day event of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Larry was a Pilot for a Day for the 357th Fighter Squadron, and Major Benda is the Assistant Director of Operations for the 357 FS. Pilot for a Day is a program which provides children with a terminal illness a day to visit the base and become an honorary pilot for one of the operational squadrons. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1LT Susan Harrington) Hi-res

10/26/2012 - U.S. Air Force Lt Col. John Gabriel, 357th Fighter Squadron commander, gives Larry Ronstadt the 357th Fighter Squadron patch just after administering the Pilot for a Day "Oath of Office," during the Pilot for a Day program at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Larry was an honorary 357th FS pilot here on Oct 25, 2012, where he, his father and grandfather toured the squadron, visited an A-10 static, an HH-60 static and the base Fire Department. Larry is the eight-year-old son of Jeff and Tiana Ronstadt. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1LT Susan Harrington) Hi-res

Source (including 9 photos)

Note: Eight-year-old Larry is the son of Jeff and Tiana Ronstadt, and was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in December 2011.

EMS refurbishes Heritage Park

by Senior Airman Brittany Dowdle
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Clint Black and Airman 1st Class Jesse Thompson, 355th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft structural maintenance journeymen, apply a sticker to the side of an A-10 Thunderbolt II during the refurbishment of Heritage Park on Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Oct. 24, 2012. Aircraft at Heritage Park are refurbished every three to four years to prevent corrosion. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Brittany) Hi-res

10/26/2012 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Members from the 355th Equipment Maintenance Squadron corrosion control and sheet metal flights are working to refurbish several aircraft at Heritage Park on Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

"We are maintaining Heritage Park," said Senior Airman Clint Black, 355th EMS aircraft structural maintenance. "We are making sure it is kept at a standard so people will come and see the aircraft."

Members of the 355th EMS are making the final touches to the refurbishing of the A-10 Thunderbolt II this week.

"A typical A-10 takes seven days," said Staff Sgt. Ray McMahon, 355th EMS day shift corrosion lead. "Since it is a one-shift operation and we're doing it outside, we were given ten days to finish the A-10 at Heritage Park."

Members of the 355th EMS will start re-beautifying the Lockheed U-2 next week. In April, they will return to Heritage Park to repaint the C-130.

"As Corrosion Control and Sheet Metal Flight, it's our job to take care of the aircraft, which includes the aircraft at Heritage Park," McMahon said.

Source (including 2 photos)

81st Fighter Squadron A-10Cs caught at Pampa Range October 2012

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

From Warthog News contributor Edwin Huskens, Belgium, I got notification about recent activity of A-10Cs from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany, at Pampa Range, Belgium. I will select and re-post at least a couple of shots which were already released on kbspotting. Special thanks to other Belgian aircraft photographers for their written permission for posting their pictures on my blog.


A-10C 81-0966 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, marked 52 OG as the 52nd Operations Group bird. Note the unusal view on Sniper XR targeting pod on station 10. (Photo by Claes Bart) Full size


A-10C 81-0966 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, marked 52 OG as the 52nd Operations Group bird. (Photo by Claes Bart)


A-10C 81-0966 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, marked 52 OG as the 52nd Operations Group bird. (Photo by Claes Bart)


A-10C 81-0966 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, marked 52 OG as the 52nd Operations Group bird. (Photo by Claes Bart)


A-10C 81-0966 from the 81st Fighter Squadron, marked 52 OG as the 52nd Operations Group bird. (Photo by Claes Bart)


A-10C 81-0980 from the 81st Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Claes Bart)


Nice underwing view with some vapor. (Photo by Claes Bart) Full size


A-10C 81-0980 from the 81st Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Tim Van den Boer) Full size


A-10C 81-0980 from the 81st Fighter Squadron much more close. (Photo by Tim Van den Boer) Full size


A-10C 81-0980 from the 81st Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Tim Van den Boer) Full size

The pilot who 'spotted' us ... A-10C 81-0980 from the 81st Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Edwin Huskens) Full sizePlease note: More pictures will be uploaded soon.

Big Mama of "Flying Tigers" "Hogs" disclosed at Moody

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Well-known to the entire A-10 Thunderbolt II ("Warthog") community, including thousands of civilian aircraft enthusiasts all around the world, are the shark-mouthed "Hogs" of the 23rd Fighter Group "Flying Tigers", currently assigned to the 74th and 75th Fighter Squadrons. Some days ago, 23rd Wing Public Affairs, Moody AFB, Georgia, released the following picture:


In Rambo-style, Mark Kirsch pulls Big Mama outside a "secret hangar" because the aircraft's engines are tired and out of order now. In contrast to the A-10, a huge 5"/54 caliber Mark 45 gun (127 mm) is installed but stealthy hidden by the big nose.

Note: Have fun!

Refueling the thunder

Released by RAF Mildenhall Public Affairs


10/15/2012 - An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 188th Fighter Wing, Fort Smith, Ark., flies off the wing of a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, during a coronet mission Oct. 12, 2012. A coronet is when an aerial refueling tanker escorts fighters over long distances, regularly topping off their fuel tanks along the way. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Austin M. May) Hi-res (3320 x 2420 pixel)

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0188 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, marked 188 FW and named City of Fort Smith as the wing's flagship.


10/15/2012 - An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 188th Fighter Wing, Fort Smith, Ark., takes fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, during a coronet mission Oct. 12, 2012. A coronet is when an aerial refueling tanker escorts fighters over long distances, regularly topping off their fuel tanks along the way. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Austin M. May) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0166 from the 184th Fighter Squadron.


10/15/2012 - An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 175th Wing, Middle River, Md., flies off the wing of a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, during a coronet mission Oct. 12, 2012. A coronet is when an aerial refueling tanker escorts fighters over long distances, regularly topping off their fuel tanks along the way. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Austin M. May) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0082 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG).

Source

Please note: Seems like that's the original source for the 188th Fighter Wing's news photo, posted by me earlier this evening. And these hi-res versions are much larger!

A long way home: 188th A-10 makes trek from Afghanistan to Arkansas

Released by 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs


10/24/2012 - An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 188th Fighter Wing, Arkansas Air National Guard, flies off the wing of a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, during a coronet mission Oct. 12, 2012, over the skies of Egypt. A coronet is when an aerial refueling tanker escorts fighters over long distances, regularly topping off their fuel tanks along the way. The 188th A-10 and its pilot were returning to Fort Smith, Ark., from a deployment to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Austin M. May) Hi-res

Note: Pictured on this excellent and very rare shot is A-10C 80-0188 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, marked 188 FW and named City of Fort Smith as the wing's flagship.

Source

Book title "A-10 Thunderbolt II Units of Operation Enduring Freedom" announced by Osprey Publishing

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Previev cover shot, distributed by Amazon. Please note: All previous books of Osprey's Combat Series were covered by an artist illustration.

Already on August 24, 2012, but only in their blog post Combat Aircraft - Coming 2013! Osprey Publishing announced the release of a book, titled "A-10 Thunderbolt Units of Operation Enduring Freedom".

According to that (written by Mike, the youngster of the office, this book will be released as number 98 of their well-recommended Combat Aircraft Series in June 2013.

I came across this anouncement by trying Google after visiting again Warthog Territy Forums (WTF).

In the WTF's Hog Chat section I found a topic A-10 OEF 2002-2007 Book, started on August 4, 2012, by Gary Wetzel, author of the upcomming book.

In this topic, Gary wrote: Hey everyone, New to the forums here, but have been looking for quite a few years. I am working on an A-10 book for Osprey Publishing that will focus on A-10 combat operations in Operating Enduring Freedom from March 2002-Summer 2007. I was hoping there might be some photos some of the members have that they may be willing to share. I do have an illustration budget so there will be compensation for the images that are uesd. As well, any Hog drivers around who flew during the above timeframe and would like to share stories would be greatly appreciated. Please let me know if any of you are interested! Thanks in advance!

And just after only two responses, on August 5 he added: [...] Thanks for the response. I am looking for shots of the jets at Bagram, especially those that identify serial number, any special markings, ordnance loadout and crews loading weapons. What units were you with then? Shoot me an email if you want. I would love a chance to chat. Gary

Meanwhile, this book is also announced by Amazon. See

Because I archived a lot of OEF A-10 news and pictures since 2002 (some of them are not more online today) I would like to support Gary's project. But if I remember right, there were only a few pictures released online by USAF official sources during this time frame.


@Gary Wetzel: If you read that please drop me a line. I will also try to contact you...

BTW: I'm a big fan of Osprey's Combat Aircraft Series. I already own the following books
F-15C/E EAGLE UNITS OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM (Osprey Combat Aircraft 47) by Steve Davies, 2004.
F-15E STRIKE EAGLE UNITS IN COMBAT 1990-2005 (Osprey Combat Aircraft 59) by Steve Davies, 2005.
B-1B LANCER UNITS IN COMBAT (Osprey Combat Aircraft 60) by Thomas Withington, 2006.
F-16 FIGHTING FALCON UNITS OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM (Osprey Combat Aircraft 61) by Steve Davies and Doug Dildy (2006)

Question: Any A-10 pilot, dedicated crew chief (DCC), assistant crew chief (ACC), weapons loader or other supporting personell who will provide personal hi-res shots taken at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, just after arriving from Ahmed Al Jaber AB, Kuwait? Also wanted are shots of A-10s taken during their "secret" stopover at Jacobabad AB, Pakistan.


A U.S. Air Force Fairchild-Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft takes off for a patrol from Bagram airbase June 11, 2002 in Bagram Afghanistan. The A-10, also known as the "Warthog", is a single seat, close air support (CAS) aircraft that is deployed to protect troops and attack ground targets in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Copyright: 2002 Scott Nelson)

Note: Pictured is A-10 252 from the 75th Fighter Squadron.


Four A-10s from the 74th EFS sit on the flightline at Bagram Airfield. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Please note: This breaking news will be further updated soon.

Wing successfully completes inspection

by Staff Sgt. Danielle Johnston
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

10/23/2012 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Keeping in line with the wing's top priorities for the year, the 442nd Fighter Wing successfully completed the consolidated unit inspection, Oct. 16.

Receiving an overall grade of "satisfactory," several areas of the wing were noted for excellent performance and programs. Among the shops receiving exceptional performance reviews, were the 442nd Operations Group Aircrew Flight Equipment, 442nd Fighter Wing Judge Advocate General, 442nd FW Flight, Weapons and Ground Safety Programs and 442nd FW Public Affairs.

"Fantastic job," said Brig. Gen. Eric Overturf, 442nd Fighter Wing commander. "Especially considering everything this wing has been through in the last few years - operational readiness inspections, combat deployments, fighter group force structure changes, active association standup, personnel decrements and budget cuts.

"Please take time to congratulate and thank each other for all the hard work that went into these inspections, and celebrate! The inspectors gave us a tough evaluation and did not pull any punches, and you responded with hard work, positive attitudes and pride that comes with being the best A-10 wing in the world," he said.

Dozens of reservists were recognized by the inspector general as superior performers and for military bearing.

"This wing is the most professional group of people we've ever inspected," said Brig. Gen. John Mooney, inspector general team chief. "You all did an excellent job, and your programs were top notch."

Source

23d WG, 93d AGOW earn prestigious unit awards

by Staff Sgt. Ciara Wymbs
23d Wing Public Affairs

10/18/2012 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The 23d Wing and 93d Air Ground Operations Wing recently earned the Meritorious Unit Award and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award respectively.

The hard work of the Airmen of the 23d Wing paid off after receiving notification from Air Combat Command of winning the Meritorious Unit Award Oct. 4, 2012. The 93d Air Ground Operations Wing, a tenant unit at Moody, was recognized for accomplishments this year. This year makes four times winning the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for the 93d AGOW.

The 23d Wing was given the award for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding achievement or service in direct support of combat operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and the Horn of Africa from June 1, 2010 to May 31, 2012.

"I am continually impressed with the outstanding Airmen in the 23d WG," said U.S. Air Force Chief Mast Sgt. Frank Batten, 23d WG command chief. "No matter the challenge, we always make it happen."

As stated in the citation, during the period 23d WG Airmen conducted more than 330 high-risk missions, garnering 33 Bronze Stars, six with valor, and 15 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 11 of which were also with valor.

The Meritorious Unit Award recognizes Air Force active duty, reserve and guard units for exceptional service in direct support of combat operations against armed enemies of the United States after Sept. 11, 2001.

To earn the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the 93d AGOW deployed more than 900 Airmen to eight countries in support of every major contingency operation. The 93d AGOW also led over 1,000 personnel from 10 coalition nations, while safeguarding more than 400 aircraft and $50 billion dollars of war fighting equipment.

"This shows the dedication and professionalism of Airmen within the wing," said U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Walski, 93d AGOW vice commander. "Deploying and doing the mission day in and day out at a superior level of performance is second nature."

The award is presented as a ribbon to any command of the U.S. Air Force which performs exceptionally meritorious service, accomplishes specific acts of outstanding achievement, excels in combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States, or conducts with distinction military operations involving conflict with, or exposure to, a hostile action by any opposing foreign force.

"I am honored to be able to serve with Airmen who constantly strive to be the very best," said Col. Billy Thompson, 23d WG commander. "Thanks for all you do, great work!"

Source

U.S., ROK showcase skills during 2012 Air Power Day

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


A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 25th Fighter Squadron perform a flyby for Air Power Day 2012 at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 21, 2012. Air Power Day 2012 represents an annual opportunity for the United States to showcase its military personnel and unique equipment to a global audience. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek) Hi-res

10/21/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Osan Air Base opened its gates to more than 65,000 visitors during Air Power Day Oct. 20 and 21.

More than 22 aircraft from around Pacific Air Forces were on display while the ROK's premiere demonstration team, the Black Eagles, took to the skies to exercise their combat flying capabilities in eight T-50 training aircraft.

"This is a great opportunity for us to share what we do with our community, neighbors and friends," said Col. Patrick McKenzie, 51st Fighter Wing commander, during opening ceremonies. "We have an incredible line-up. The Black Eagles are a fantastic demonstration team."

The show featured aerial demonstrations from A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, F-16 Fighting Falcons, a C-17 Globemaster, a ROKAF F-15K Eagle, a T-50 Golden Eagle, a U2 Dradonlady, and a KC-135 Stratotanker. Visitors were also shown a military working dog demonstration, dancing and music from the Korean-American Partnership Association, and a Combat Search and Rescue team mission later in the day.

On the ground, spectators could see an up-close view of a first-time visitor, the F-22 Raptor, and other aircraft like the MV-Osprey and the CH-47 Chinook.

"Putting all of this together started back in May," said Capt. Callous Quinby, 51st Operations Support Squadron wing training chief who was in charge of bringing the aircraft to the peninsula. "People had a chance to come out and see things they normally wouldn't, and they can see how well we work with the ROK Air Force."

The Black Eagles brought cheers from the crowd and seemed to be a fan favorite. "I liked when the planes flew right over us," said Sun Pak, referring to the Black Eagles demonstration.

Despite the busy schedule of events and numerous food booths lining the flight line, the air show's focus was on the partnership between the U.S. and ROK.

"Our relationship with the Republic of Korea Air Force is amazing," said Chief Master Sgt. Brendan Criswell, 51st FW Command Chief. "This is air power at its finest."

Source (including 10 photos)

The following additional picture is available in the photo section of 51st FW's public website:


A-10 Thunderbolts from the 25th Fighter Squadron perform a fly over during Air Power Day 2012 on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 20, 2012. The air show highlights the relationship between the 51st Fighter Wing and the ROK through public demonstrations of military equipment and personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexis Siekert) Hi-res

Second Round of 188th Airmen Return Home

Posted on: 5:50 pm, October 17, 2012, by Meredith Baldwin, updated on: 06:21pm, October 17, 2012
5NEWS / KFSM

Approximately 45 airmen and 10 pilots with the 188th Fighter Wing made it home to Fort Smith Wednesday after a deployment to Afghanistan.

"It feels great," Brian Burger, the Operations Group Commander with the 188th said after landing. "It was a long trip, believe me. Halfway around the world. So a couple of ten hours sorties to get us back here. Five legs total. Took us over a week. So it's good to be back."

Burger, and nine other pilots landed their A10s Wednesday afternoon.

"We had a great run, a great deployment," Cmdr. Burger said. "We didn't have any mistakes. No errors."

Justin Lewis was one of the last pilots back on the ground. He said he couldn't wait to get out of the plane and see his family.

"He told us he was very last, and so it was easy to pick him out," Lewis' wife, Sarah, said. "So we just kept scooting down so that he could see us when he taxied in."

As soon as Justin Lewis' plane landed, his three children ran to greet him.

"We've been in the military for over 13 years and so we're kind of used to it," Sarah Lewis said. "But at the same time its very, very exciting to have Daddy home."

The deployment was part of an Air Expeditionary Forces rotation, which the 188th shared with the 175th wing based out of Baltimore.

Most of the airmen returning home were gone for three months. Some were overseas for closer to 6 months. All together, 375 airmen were deployed in Afghanistan for this rotation. Approximately 300 of the airmen that had deployed arrived home last week.

Source

Note: That's probably the very best video coverage so far. 188th Operations Group commander Brian Burger is pictured alongside A-10C 78-0646, which returned from Afghanistan.

307 BW supports the future

Released by 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs


10/19/2012 - A group of 5th Grade students from Plantation Park Elementary School pose for a group photo with Master Sgt. Jeff Walston, a public affairs technician assigned to the 307th Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 18, 2011. Walston took time to explain engine thrust, speed and capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II for the students during their visit to the 307th BW. The students are attending STARBASE Louisiana, at Barksdale, one of 60 national STARBASE sites. It is sponsored by the 307th BW of the Air Force Reserve Command. The STARBASE program presents an exciting 25-hour hands on/minds on aviation and aerospace curriculum to area 5th grade students and their teachers. The DoD program is committed to addressing the critical needs in STEM education - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics - STARBASE Louisiana introduces its students to exciting STEM education topics, inspiring these young minds to further explore these topics in future course work. (U.S. Air Force photo by Betty Stephens) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is preserved A-10A 76-0552 (A10-0099). Crew inscriptions: PLT. MAJ. JAMIE STRAUGHN, CC. MSGT. BO HUGHES, ACC. MSGT. ALEX KLEEMAN. And there's a pilot dummy sitting in the cockpit.

Source (including 2 photos)

Hogs, Maintainers Work Around the Clock

Released by 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs


10/17/2012 - An A-10 Thunderbolt II taxis to its parking spot after a night mission at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Oct. 17, 2012. The A-10 is part of a squadron of "Warthogs" that recently arrived from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Az., to fly missions in support of American and coalition forces here in Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Nevison) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0203 from the 354th Fighter Squadron, 355th Fighter Wing (ACC), Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, currently combat-deployed with the 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II sits ready to fly at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan Oct. 16, 2012. Affectionately called the 'Warthog', the A-10 is a specialized ground-attack aircraft which provides close air support to ground forces operating in Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Raymond Geoffroy) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 78-0706 (marked 345TH FS) from the 354th Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II sits ready to fly at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan Oct. 16, 2012. Affectionately called the ‘Warthog’, the A-10 is a specialized ground-attack aircraft which provides close air support to ground forces operating in Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Raymond Geoffroy) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 78-0614 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG).


10/17/2012 - A maintainer with the 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, marshals a U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II to its parking spot at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan Oct. 16, 2012. Bagram's A-10s fly daily to provide constant close-air support to NATO and Afghan ground forces operating in Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Raymond Geoffroy) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0167 from the 354th Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - Capt. Kevin Belcher, 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, parks an A-10 Thunderbolt II after completing a combat sortie on Oct. 16, 2012, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Bagram's A-10s fly daily to provide constant close-air support to NATO and Afghan ground forces operating in Afghanistan. Belcher hometown is Southington, Ky. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jonathan Snyder) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0167 from the 354th Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - Capt. Kevin Belcher, 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, climbs down from an A-10 Thunderbolt II after completing a combat sortie while SSgt Chris Loder, 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, dedicated crew chief, reviews technical orders on Oct. 16, 2012, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Bagram's A-10s fly daily to provide constant close-air support to NATO and Afghan ground forces operating in Afghanistan. Belcher hometown is Southington, Ky. and Loder hometown is Clarksville, Tenn. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jonathan Snyder) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0167 from the 354th Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - Two aircraft maintainers assigned to the 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron perform a pre-mission inspection on an A-10 Thunderbolt II at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Oct. 17, 2012. The A-10 is part of a squadron of “Warthogs” that recently arrived from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Az., to fly missions in support of American and coalition forces here in Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Nevison) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0167 from the 354th Fighter Squadron.


10/17/2012 - SSgt. Marc Bapp, left, and SrA James Weishaupt, right, 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chiefs, perform routine maintenance on an A-10 Thunderbolt II on Oct. 16, 2012, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Bagram maintainers work around the clock to keep their "Warthogs" ready to fly close air support missions in support of coalition ground forces. Bapp hometown is Lewisville, Texas and Weishaupt hometown is Tucsan, Ariz. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jonathan Snyder) Hi-res

Note: Awesome tail view.

Source (including 16 photos)

Please note: At least most of the other pictures will be uploaded soon.

ROK National Assembly visits Osan Air Base

by Airman 1st Class Alexis Siekert
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs


1st Lt. Joseph Curran, 25th Fighter Squadron A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot, explains the capabilities of the 30mm Gatling gun to the National Assembly Defense Committee during a visit to Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 15, 2012. The assembly members toured static displays of U.S. A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, the U2 Dragon Lady and ROK E-737 Peace Eye, K F-16 Falcon, and F-15K Strike Fighter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek) Hi-res

Note: Pictured on static display is A-10C 81-0971 from the 25th Fighter Squadron.

10/17/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Members from the Republic of Korea National Assembly saw firsthand how U.S. and ROK forces work together during an annual ROK National Defense Committee inspection Oct. 15, 2012.

The ROK-led inspection focused on Korean airpower capabilities, combined facilities, and ROK and U.S. aircraft to obtain a greater understanding of the elements involved in the nation's defense, explained Maj. Alec Menoni, 51st Operations Group assistant deputy commander and special projects coordinator.

"We came to Osan Air Base to see how the U.S. Air Force and ROKAF are collaborating to keep our nation and our space safe," said ROK National Assembly Chairman Seung Min Yoo. "Here there are so many essential facilities to protect from North Korea or any other country. We are very confident that the U.S. and Korea Alliance is very important in protecting our nation."

Unlike in the U.S., where Congress is broken down into the Senate and the House of Representatives, the ROK has one combined Congress. The National Assembly's Defense Committee provides legislative oversight of Korea's military and their annual budget.

Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc Jouas, 7th Air Force commander, completed a historic milestone the same day as he became the first U.S. Air Force general officer to fly aboard the ROKAF's newest aircraft, the E-737 Peace Eye.

"The E-737 Peace Eye brings a great new capability to our Alliance and as Air Component Commander, I was privileged to fly on it today," he said. "This was my first flight on the Peace Eye and I was not fully aware of all its capabilities, but now that I've seen it first hand along with the professionalism of the ROKAF officers and Enlisted crew, I am truly impressed with what it can do."

The assemblymen toured static displays of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, U-2 and ROK KF-16 Falcon and F-15K Slam Eagle, very similar to U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons and F-15 Eagles. However, the aircraft on display were only one part of the inspection. The assemblymen also learned about the combined war-fighting capabilities of the ROKAF and U.S. at the Korean Air Operations Center.

"We are honored to have the ROK National Assembly members here at Osan Air Base today and I hope that what they take away is the strength of the Alliance between the U.S. Air Force and the ROKAF," Jouas said. "Together we make a great Airpower Team. Every day our Airmen are working hard to deter, defend and, if necessary, defeat any advisories we may face, and I am certainly proud to be their commander."

Source (including 3 photos)