188th Fighter Wing deploys 275 Airmen to Afghanistan

188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Arkansas National Guard leadership shakes hands with 188th Fighter Wing Airmen as they board a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 July 2, 2012. Approximately 275 Airmen with the 188th departed Fort Smith for Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros/188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Hi-res

7/2/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Approximately 275 Airmen with the 188th Fighter Wing departed Fort Smith July 2 for Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Airmen will be deployed approximately three months.

The deployment is part of an Air Expeditionary Forces (AEF) rotation, which the 188th is sharing with the Baltimore-based 175th Wing.

"It's never easy deploying men and women into combat and we appreciate their sacrifices as well as those made by their families," said Col. Mark Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander. "We have some of the most highly trained and capable Airmen in the Air Force and I have complete confidence that they will focus on the mission and exceed all expectations. From the maintainers to the pilots and support personnel, our men and women have continued to exhibit dedication and professionalism in the face of adversity. We're very proud of our Airmen and we await their safe return."

The personnel leaving July 2 will be deployed approximately three months and will join a group of approximately 75 Airmen with the 188th already deployed to Afghanistan to supplement the 175th's portion of the AEF rotation.

Approximately 20 Airmen with the 188th deployed to Afghanistan last week as part of an advance team which will prepare for the arrival of the larger group.

In total, the 188th deployed approximately 375 Airmen to Afghanistan during this AEF rotation.

The A-10 mission in 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 provide aerial reconnaissance on locations of interest to ground commanders.

This is the second AEF deployment for the 188th as a unit since receiving A-10s April 14, 2007. The 188th's last AEF rotation transpired in 2010 when the unit deployed approximately 300 Airmen and 10 A-10Cs to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

While the 188th prepares year-round for its mission, it has conducted an intense training regimen in the past six months in preparation for its AEF rotation. The 188th deployed approximately 300 operations, maintenance and support personnel along with multiple A-10Cs to participate in Operation Snowbird at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 11-26, 2012.

The deployment to Davis-Monthan afforded the 188th with the opportunity to conduct training and gain operational experience in a mountainous, desert terrain, which closely mimics the climate and conditions in Afghanistan.

The 188th also participated in Green Flag-East, a combat training exercise located at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., which allows A-10s to work with attack controllers to coordinate precise live and inert weapons deliveries.

"This is what we train for year round," said B.J. Ginger, an A-10 pilot with the 188th Fighter Wing. "Each deployed location is different and we prepare for everything."

Source

Note: The Flying Razorbacks will replace at least most of the personnel from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG), for the second stint of their shared ANG "Rainbow Team" combat deployment.

Warthogs in flight

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Some days ago, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs released an outstanding set of 23 stunning air-to-air shots, featuring three A-10Cs on Razorback Range located at Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center, Ark., June 4, 2012. Let me present at least some of these pictures, all taken by MSgt. Ben Bloker.

On their Facebook page, I asked 188th FW PA: What type of "chasing" aircraft did Ben use to take all of these awesome shots? 188th FW PA answered: It was an F-16D from the 138th Fighter Wing, Oklahoma Air National Guard, based in Tulsa.

BTW: According to a reply to another visitor, these images were captured with a Nikon D3.

Please note: Pictured in the very first two shots are A-10Cs 216 (?) and 638. Pictured in all of the remaining 21 shots is A-10C 79-0129, piloted by Lt. Col. Brian Burger.

Lt. Col. Chris Beckman, lead aircraft, and Maj. Jeremiah Gentry, both A-10C Thunderbolt II pilots from the Arkansas Air National Guard's Fort Smith-based 188th Fighter Wing maneuver in formation June 4, 2012, over the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. The 188th hosted a Special Operations Exercise with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) from the 75th Ranger Regiment, UH-60 Black Hawks from the Arkansas Army National Guard's 77th Theater Aviation Brigade and an AC-130U Spooky Gunship. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ben Bloker) Hi-res

Lt. Col. Chris Beckman, lead aircraft, and Maj. Jeremiah Gentry, both A-10C Thunderbolt II pilots from the Arkansas Air National Guard's Fort Smith-based 188th Fighter Wing maneuver in formation June 4, 2012, over the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ben Bloker) Hi-res

Lt. Col. Brian Burger, an A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot and the 188th Fighter Wing Operations Group commander, fires 30mm rounds from at a target during a training exercise on Razorback Range located at Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center, Ark., June 4, 2012. The 188th, nearing its second deployment to Afghanistan with the A-10, regularly conducts training with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) from different branches of service to sharpen its close air support skills and to conduct efficient training with JTACs. During this exercise, JTACs from the 75th Ranger Regiment provided forward control. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ben Bloker) Hi-res

Please note: Some more pictures will be uploaded soon.

Later this evening (June 30, 2012), eight of these shots were reposted on 188th FW's public web site under the news headline 188th Warthogs take to the range

188th flyover honors American hero during repatriation ceremony

By 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

A four-ship of A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" with the Arkansas Air National Guard's 188th Fighter Wing perform a missing man formation during a flyover to honor Capt. Virgil Meroney III during a repatriation ceremony held in Fayetteville, Ark., June 9, 2012. Meroney was missing in action during the Vietnam War after being shot down in his F-4D Phantom II aircraft, which crashed while carrying out a nighttime strike mission in Kahammouan Province, Laos. Meroney's remains were identified May 24 and were returned to his family for burial with full military honors. Col. Mark Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander; Lt. Col. Brian Burger, 188th Operations Group commander; Maj. Justin Lewis; and Capt. Mark Cox performed the flyover. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros/188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

6/19/2012 - FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- The 188th Fighter Wing conducted a four-ship flyover and performed a missing man formation to honor Capt. Virgil Meroney III during a repatriation ceremony held in Fayetteville, Ark., June 9, 2012. Meroney was missing in action during the Vietnam War after being shot down March 1, 1969, in his F-4D Phantom II aircraft, which crashed while carrying out a nighttime strike mission in Kahammouan Province, Laos.

Nearby U.S. aircrews reported seeing Meroney's aircraft hit by enemy fire. No parachutes were seen after the aircraft was hit. Heavy enemy presence in the area prevented recovery efforts.

Meroney's remains were identified May 24 and were returned to his family for burial with full military honors. Meroney was a native of Fayetteville.

Col. Mark Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander; Lt. Col. Brian Burger, 188th Operations Group commander; Maj. Justin Lewis; and Capt. Mark Cox performed the flyover. The Little Rock Air Force Base Honor Guard also performed at the event.

Anderson presented a Unites States flag to the Meroney family June 10, 2012, in Fort Smith, Ark. The flag was flown over Afghanistan during the 188th's last combat deployment to Kandahar in 2010 and was also flown over Meroney's repatriation ceremony in Fayetteville.

Source (7 pictures included)

A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" with the Arkansas Air National Guard's 188th Fighter Wing perform a missing man formation during a flyover to honor Capt. Virgil Meroney III during a repatriation ceremony held in Fayetteville, Ark., June 9, 2012. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros/188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

Please note: Two more pictures will be uploaded immediately.

Flying Razorback member spotlight - Capt. Mark Cox

Released by 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Capt. Mark Cox, a member of the 188th Operations Group, was selected as the 188th Fighter Wing's Flying Razorback spotlight for June 2012. (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

5/31/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Capt. Mark Cox, a member of the 188th Operations Group, was selected as the 188th Fighter Wing's Flying Razorback spotlight for June 2012.

Hometown: Born in St. Paul, Minn., but now I live in Fort Smith.
Job title: Militarily, I am an A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot. At my civilian job, I am a captain with Piedmont Airlines.
In the 188th: Since 2005.
Education: Bachelor's degree in commercial aviation from the University of North Dakota "Go Sioux!"
Favorite TV show: "Archer" and "How I met your Mother" are at the top, but I also enjoy "Family Guy," "The Simpsons" and "American Dad!".
Favorite actor/actress: Yvonne Strahovski and Sean Connery, who was the best James Bond.
Favorite color: Blue.
Favorite animal: Any dog. I have a mini dachshund and a West Highland terrier.
Favorite comedian: Adam Sandler, especially his Hanukah songs.
Favorite movie: "Lord of the Rings" or any James Bond movie.
Favorite restaurant: In Fort Smith it would be Fuji or Emmys German restaurant. My favorite of all time would be Le Repubbliche Marinare, which is a little mom and pop shop located in in Pisa, Italy, that has unforgettable food!
Favorite soft drink: Lemonade.
Favorite foods: Italian.
Favorite musical group/musician: Jimmy Buffet always helps me relax. Also, I enjoy Bob Marley.
Favorite word or phrase: "So to speak" or "tonight is going to be legen ... wait for it ... dary" from "How I met your Mother."
Favorite super hero: My Dad! He made me the man I am today; any complaints with me should be taken up with him. He inspired me to be a pilot.
Favorite U.S. presidents: Ronald Reagan and Theodore Roosevelt.
Favorite historical figure: General James Harold "Jimmy" Doolittle.
Favorite sport: Soccer. I play in a league in Fort Smith. I usually play outside back or midfield.
Favorite sports individual: David Beckham.
Favorite football team: Minnesota Vikings! Purple pride!
My worst job ever: Bus boy at a restaurant.
Hobbies: Playing soccer. I enjoy going for a drive in my new Audi, and of course flying.
My dream shopping spree: Any gun store.
Place I'd most like to visit: Eastern Europe.
Favorite cartoon character: Archer.
Favorite automobile: Audi or an Aston Martin DBS.
My worst habit: Chewing ice.
What scares me the most: Fratricide, and also a fear of failure. I hate snakes, too. The last snake to venture in my yard was shot then burned.
The best day of my life: Still to this day the best day of my life was when I got the call to fly for the 188th Fighter Wing. I was in downtown Minneapolis and walking with my wife Megan (we were still dating at the time). I literally jumped off a wall. I had spent my entire life working toward that goal. If my wife asks the same question, I might say our wedding. But honestly, it's not even close.
Things I look forward to: My wife's coffee. While we were at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., for A-10 training she worked at Starbucks for five months. We bought an awesome espresso machine and all the beans and syrups. Now she can make just about anything you would order at Starbucks. One of my favorite things to do on an off day is drink a latte or cappuccino and read the paper without ever having to leave my house.
Most inspirational figure: My dad, who was a United Airlines captain and a retired U.S. Army helicopter pilot who flew in Vietnam. He put me behind the controls of an airplane when I was 2. I started taking flying lessons when I was 14 and had my first solo on my 16th birthday. My dad was the inspiration behind all that.

Source

Note: That's a very nice spotlight of a current A-10C pilot!

Green Flag East preps 188th for Afghanistan

by Airman 1st Class John Hillier
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

An A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthog" takes off from the 188th Fighter Wing, an Arkansas Air National Guard unit based in Fort Smith. The A-10 was participating in a training mission. The 188th recently participated in Green Flag East at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., in preparation for an upcoming Air Expeditionary Force deployment to Afghanistan later this summer. Due to the 188th's geographical proximity to the Louisiana air base, the 188th was able to take off from Fort Smith to perform vital training near Barksdale, minimizing the number of personnel required on-site and saving taxpayer dollars. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 216.

5/22/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Airmen with the 188th Fighter Wing participated here in a joint-service training exercise at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., April 30 through May 10. The exercise, known as Green Flag East helped A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthog" aircrew and maintainers hone their combat skills while working alongside other Airmen and U. S. Army troops in a realistic training environment.

The primary objective of Green Flag East was to prepare the 188th for its upcoming Air Expeditionary Force (AEF) rotation to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). This will be the 188th's second combat deployment in the A-10C.

The 188th's last AEF tasking occurred in 2010 when the unit deployed approximately 300 operations, maintenance and support personnel to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, also in support of OEF.

"Close-air support is the most common mission we do," said Lt. Col. Brian T. Burger, 188th Operations Group commander."But we don't often get an opportunity to be out there in an unfamiliar environment with Army maneuver units. This exercise helped make sure we're ready to execute when we go downrange."

Burger said the 188th is using the lessons learned at Green Flag East to prepare for their upcoming AEF deployment to Afghanistan. Participating in the exercise exposed 188th pilots to a wide variety of realistic scenarios they are likely to see during their deployment, he said.

"There's not too much our pilots haven't seen training in our own area," Burger said. "The ability to go out into an area that our pilots aren't familiar with gives us an extra measure of difficulty that is good for us to overcome."

Burger said many of the scenarios pilots experienced involved close-air support missions but they also had the chance to work with the Army in combat search and rescue, and direct action with Special Forces units.

Maj. Chris Simpson, who served as the 188th's project officer for Green Flag East, said learning to work in a joint environment was a primary objective during the exercise. Simpson added that A-10s are just one of the many air assets available to commanders downrange, so there's a high likelihood that pilots from the 188th will be participating in coordinated attacks.

Green Flag East is one of the final steps in the deployment preparation process and functions as follow-on training to Operation Snowbird. The 188th deployed approximately 300 Airmen to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 11-26 to participate in Operation Snowbird.

The 188th dropped myriad live munitions at Snowbird that it doesn't have opportunity to accomplish at Razorback Range, including GBU-38 JDAMs, GBU-12 LGBs, MK-82s, MK-66 rockets and AGM-65 Mavericks. The 188th also fired 30 MM rounds from the A-10's GAU-8/A seven-barrel Gatling gun.

Green Flag East integrated the training logged at Snowbird and incorporated new elements in order to execute a more realistic wartime scenario and generate a more authentic battle rhythm.

Simpson said the 188th also conducted live firing on moving targets and strafing runs as well as coordinated attacks with Army AH64D Apache and OH-58 Kiowa helicopters while participating in Green Flag East.

Airmen from the 188th trained at Green Flag East in conjunction with elements of the 101st Airborne Division, 19th Air Support Operations Squadron and 5th Special Forces Group during the exercise.

Burger said that in addition to valuable training and vital preparation for its upcoming deployment, another prime consideration for the 188th at Green Flag East was the efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

Rather than send eight or 10 aircraft to Barksdale AFB, along with the maintenance and support personnel that perform ground support for the jets, pilots took off from Fort Smith, conducted training scenarios, and then returned to Fort Smith the next day. Only about 20 Airmen from the 188th were required on site at Barksdale AFB.

In 2010, the 188th deployed approximately 300 Airmen to Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., to participate in Green Flag West in preparation for its AEF deployment to Kandahar.

Burger said the 188th's decision to participate in Green Flag East this time saved the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command, and taxpayers, a substantial amount of money.

"This is a small-footprint operation for us," Burger said. "A typical complement for eight or 10 aircraft would consist of a much larger group of people. With us being located so close, it makes the exercise very efficient on cost."

Another way the 188th was able to cut training costs for the exercise was through extensive use of teleconferencing. Burger said that following each scenario, all participants went through an extensive debriefing, in which they discussed the scenario, and searched for ways to improve their performance.

Burger said the video and data link capabilities available at the 188th allowed intelligence and operations staff to take part in the debriefing from Fort Smith, and not require them to be on site in Louisiana.

Source

ANG "Rainbow Team" A-10Cs caught at Lajes en route to Afghanistan

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Updated on April 30 and May 6, 2012

As already reported, on March 31, 2012, 18 A-10Cs of an ANG "Rainbow Team" arrived at Lajes Field, Azores, en route to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Warthog News contributor André Inacio from Portugal had the opportunity to take the following shots. Unfortunately, he arrived at the airport too late to catch the arrival of the first six A-10Cs which were the following:

78-0613, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
78-0630, 184th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
78-0646, 188th FS, 188th FW (Arkansas ANG)
78-0682, 104th FS, 175th Wg (Maryland ANG)
78-0693, 104th FS, 175th Wg (Maryland ANG)
78-0702, 104th FS, 175th Wg (Maryland ANG)

A-10C 78-0583 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0614 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0616 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0621 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0639 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0683 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 78-0719 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 79-0082 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 79-0087 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 79-0088 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 80-0188 (marked 188 FW) from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Foto by André Inacio) Full size

A-10C 80-0166 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by André Inacio) Full size

On the same day, Warthog News contributor Joao Toste, also from Portugal, had the opportunity to take the following shot, already published on Airliners.net:

Parking of a six-pack at Lajes: Already parked are (from left) A-10C 78-0621 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG), A-10C 78-0683 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG), A-10C 80-0188 (marked 188 FW) from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG), A-10C 79-0087 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). A-10C 78-0616 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG) is entering the parking spot, while A-10C 78-0614 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG) is still taxiing to enter the parking spot. (Photo by Joao Toste) Full size

On April 2, 2012, Joao took the following departure shot (also published on Airliners.net):

Six A-10Cs on taxiway Charlie and runway 33 ready for departure to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, en route to Afghanistan. Pictured in the foreground is A-10C 80-0166 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). (Photo by Joao Toste) Full size

Colonel Tom Anderson logs A-10 'fini flight'

By 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Senior Airman Brad Allen, a crew chief with the 188th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, helps strap Col. Tom Anderson into an A-10C Thunderbolt II prior to ignition in preparation for Anderson's "fini flight" April 12, 2012. (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

Note: Col. Tom Anderson logged his "final flight" in A-10C 78-0586 from the 184th Fighter Squadron. He could'nt take A-10C 80-0188, marked 188 FW as the Fighter Wing's boss bird, because this "Hog" is currently combat-deployed to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

4/16/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Col. Tom Anderson logged his A-10C Thunderbolt II "fini flight" at the 188th Fighter Wing April 12, 2012. Anderson's final flight in the A-10 preceded a change-of-command ceremony in which he relinquished command of the 188th April 14.

Anderson served as the 188th Fighter Wing commander from 2008-2012. During his career, Anderson accumulated more than 2,500 flying hours in the A-10, F-16 Fighting Falcon, T-38 and T-37 aircraft. He served 25 years in the 188th Fighter Wing.



Together with five other A-10C pilots from the 188th Fighter Wing, Col. Tom Anderson walks to the flight line to logg his A-10C Thunderbolt II "fini flight". (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res



Conducting a preflight inspection prior to his "fini flight", Col. Tom Anderson touches the "business end" of A-10C 78-0586. Visible at right is A-10C 78-0659. (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res



Just after landing, Col. Tom Anderson's "Hog" is sprayed by fire trucks. (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res



A-10C 78-0586 just after landing. Visible at right is an A-10C from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG). (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

Source (including 11 hi-res photos)

For additional pictures check the album Col. Tom Anderson logs A-10 'fini flight' (22 photos) on 188th Fighter Wing's Facebook page.

Please note: More related pictures will be uploaded soon.

188th Fighter Wing change of command in the news

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

Dear visitors, I'm currently in the process to post some related news media stuff, already posted partially by 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs on their Facebook page. Please enjoy!

New Commander to Lead 188th Fighter Wing

by Heather Lewis
5NEWS / KFSM TV
Posted on: 5:29 pm, April 13, 2012, updated on: 05:36pm, April 13, 2012



The 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith will soon have a new commander. Current Vice Commander Colonel Mark Anderson will be the new leader of the Fighter Wing this weekend.

After six years commanding the 188th, Col. Thomas Anderson says he's taking a traditional guardsman position at the Arkansas Air National Guard State Headquarters at Camp Joseph T. Robinson in Little Rock. Col. Anderson says he has two sons and currently commutes to Fort Smith from Conway every day. Although he'll be closer to his family, he says it's a difficult time to leave the Fort Smith base.

"The uncertainty with what we have now, we don't know if we're going to have a flying mission, we don't know if we're going to be flying remote with piloted aircraft, we don't know," says Col. Anderson.

To keep guardsmen off the chopping block in Washington, the Council of Governors, made of up 10 state governors, proposed an alternative to budget cuts, but the Air Force recently rejected that proposal because it didn't meet specific requirements.

"The number of challenges that we've had to overcome and the way we've overcome them during the time I've been here in headquarters, I think is what's made me the most proud of the time I've served here," says Col. Anderson.

"Since I got in this unit, one of the things that has impressed me the most is the support of this community," says Col. Anderson.

Letters continue to reach state representatives about the importance of having the 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith. Despite not knowing what will happen, Col. Anderson says the Airmen's moral is still high.

"No matter how difficult the times may be, we've always been able to focus on the job at hand and complete it," says Col. Anderson.

Two formal ceremonies for change of command will take place Saturday at the 188th Fighter Wing base in Fort Smith.

Source

188th Commander Proud Of Community Support

By Jeff Arnold
Times Record
4:05 am - April 14, 2012 — Updated: 10:07 am - April 14, 2012



Col. Tom Anderson addresses the media Friday during a news conference at the 188th Fighter Wing anncouncing the formal change-of-command ceremony scheduled for 1 p.m. today at the base. (Photo by Jamie Mitchell, Times Record)

Col. Tom Anderson will say goodbye today, after 25 years at the 188th Fighter Wing.

Anderson, 188th Wing commander since October 2008, will pass the mantle of leadership to Col. Mark Anderson at a change-of-command ceremony today at 1 p.m. at the 188th’s Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

Tom Anderson, 49, of Conway was assigned to the 188th when he joined the Arkansas Air National Guard in March 1987. He remained a traditional guardsman until 2006 when he was promoted to Wing vice commander and asked to become a full-time member of the 188th.

The full-time status was supposed to be for no more than three years, but six years later, Anderson still commutes more than 250 miles each day to and from work.

When Anderson relinquishes command today, he will return to his role as traditional guardsman and be assigned to Camp Robinson in North Little Rock, with his duties to be assigned at a later date.

With two sons, 8 and 10, Anderson said it was time to get back to Conway and "focus more on family." He is also exploring business opportunities that will keep him close to home.

As Wing vice commander and then commander, Anderson was part of the leadership that oversaw the unit's conversion from the F-16 to the A-10.

In May 2005, the Pentagon recommended that the 188th be stripped of its fleet of F-16s, which would have eliminated at least 700 jobs at the base. A local task force guided by civic leaders appealed to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission to reject the Pentagon's recommendation. The commission voted in August 2005 to remove the F-16s from the 188th and replace them with A-10s.

The first A-10s arrived at the 188th in April 2007, and less than a month after completing its conversion from the F-16 to the A-10, the 188th deployed to Afghanistan in March 2010, where the unit met 100 percent of its flight tasks, Anderson said.

As it transitioned to the A-10, Anderson said the 188th was faced with multiple challenges — including fleet-wide wing cracks in the A-10 in late 2008 that left the 188th with one flyable aircraft for a period of time and converting to a newer model A-10.

Despite those challenges, Anderson said the men and women of the 188th performed exceptionally well in the field and during a 2009 inspection that rated the 188th as the top A-10 unit in the U.S. Air Force and in the top 2 percent of units overall.

Although those challenges were met and overcome under his leadership, Anderson said they aren't his accomplishments, but the accomplishments of the men and women of the 188th.

Also instrumental in the success of the 188th has been the high level of community involvement.

While he's most proud of the unit's ability to overcome obstacles, Anderson said one of the most impressive things he's seen since he's been at the 188th is the level of community support.

That support was on full display when BRAC Chairman Anthony Principi visited the 188th while the fate of the unit was being determined in 2005, which Anderson said wasn't lost at all on the chairman.

When the round trips from Conway to Fort Smith end, Anderson said, it's the men and women of the 188th that he'll miss most.

"It's (the 188th) family to me … it always will be family," Anderson said.

Source

188th Fighter Wing sees command shifts

Submitted by The City Wire Staff on Sat, 04/14/2012 - 10:39pm
The City Wire

Col. Thomas Anderson relinquished command of the Arkansas Air National Guard's 188th Fighter Wing to Col. Mark W. Anderson in a formal change-of-command ceremony Saturday (April 14) at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

Col. Mark Anderson previously served as the 188th's vice commander before taking command of the Flying Razorbacks.

Anderson will oversee all of the 188th Fighter Wing's operations and support functions, as well as manage the full-time force of federal technicians, active Guard and Reserve members and state employees. The 188th consists of approximately 1,000 Airmen. The 188th is equipped with 20 A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthog" aircraft and conducts close-air support, forward air control and combat search and rescue missions.

"I'm energized about the chance to lead this wing and excited about conquering the challenges that lie ahead," Anderson said in a statement. "Those challenges are formidable but they are manageable. Our facilities, airspace, training partnerships and community support are unmatched. But it's the courage, devotion, experience and enthusiasm of our hardworking Airmen that will help us surmount those obstacles and carry us through those challenging times. The 188th has always excelled in the face of adversity and I am confident that will continue."

Along with his experience as vice commander, Col. Mark Anderson has served in a number of different positions at the 188th and during his active duty Air Force career.

Anderson joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 2000. He has flown the F-16 Falcon and the A-10. During his tenure at the 188th, he has functioned in multiple roles, including 184th Fighter Squadron commander, 184th director of operations, wing chief of Safety and vice wing commander. His additional duties have included wing conversion project officer, unit compliance inspection project officer and operational readiness inspection project officer.

A command pilot, Anderson has more than 4,000 hours military flight time in the T-37, T-38, OV-10, F-16 and A-10. Upon completion of pilot training in 1987, he was assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., as a forward air controller. At Shaw he flew the OT-37 and OV-10.

During his active duty career he served as a flight commander, wing chief of training, assistant director of operations and director of operations, functional check pilot, mission commander and instructor pilot.

OTHER POSITION CHANGES
Col. Pete Gauger was promoted to colonel and elevated to the position of 188th Fighter Wing vice commander during the ceremony, which also included a 188th Mission Support Group change of command.

Gauger, the former 188th Mission Support Group commander, handed the group's reins to Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner during the event.

"Col. Gauger's ability to solve complex issues with resolve and determination makes him a true asset to this wing," Col. Thomas Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander, said in the statement. "Since taking the reins of the Mission Support Group in 2009, Col. Pete Gauger's keen insight, trusted counsel and astute leadership were instrumental in helping the 188th surmount a vast array of challenges. His counsel will without question be an asset to wing leadership as he moves on to his new assignment as the wing's vice commander."

Gauger joined the active duty Air Force in 1979 as an enlisted member in Accounting and Finance. Gauger was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, where he worked in Materiel and Accounts Control for the Comptroller Squadron of Alaska Air Command.

He joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 1985 and served a total of eight years as an enlisted member in the Financial Management (FM) Flight of the Air National Guard before earning a commission as a full-time budget officer in 1992.

Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner assumed command from Gauger.

"As the Mission Support Group says goodbye to an exceptional commander, it welcomes a distinguished and motivated leader ready to author an even brighter future and build upon past successes," said Col. Thomas Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander. "Her vast experience in managing challenging predicaments as well as her fortitude, wisdom and vision give her the attributes necessary to excel in her new position."

Gardner joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 1987 as an enlisted member in information management. She served as the 188th Public Affairs information management specialist until 1989 before moving to the 188th Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) Office.

Gardner earned her commission as the 188th Military Equal Opportunity officer in 1991. She became officer-in-charge of 188th MEO in 1998, before being named the 188th Mission Support Group executive officer in 2000. In 2001, Gardner became the wing's telecommunications manager and took command of the 188th Communications Flight.

Source

188th Fighter Wing Welcomes New Commander

Watch video by 4029 TV!

Local politicians and military personnel help the 188th Fighter Wing welcome a new commander. 40/29's Keristen Holmes reports.

(I still try to embed this clip)

Colonel Mark Anderson takes command of 188th Fighter Wing

by Maj. Heath Allen
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



New 188th Fighter Wing commander, Col. Mark Anderson, right, takes the 188th Fighter Wing guide-on from Brig. Gen. Dwight Balch, Arkansas Air National Guard commander, during a change-of-command ceremony April 14. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

4/14/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- The 188th Fighter Wing said goodbye to an exceptional commander while welcoming another distinguished and motivated leader to take his place.

Col. Thomas I. Anderson relinquished command of the Arkansas Air National Guard's 188th Fighter Wing to Col. Mark W. Anderson in a formal change-of-command ceremony April 14 at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

"Being the commander of a wing is a privilege and an honor," said Brig. Gen. Dwight Balch, Arkansas Air National Guard commander. "The mission assigned to the wing commander is sacred and it is imperative that this individual lead with integrity."

Col. Mark Anderson previously served as the 188th's vice commander before taking command of the Flying Razorbacks.

"Col. Mark Anderson will tell you he's a planner and his work has demonstrated he is a good one," Balch said. "He has been the lead on several major initiatives involving the wing. His performance in the 188th has been outstanding. At each position he has held, he has demonstrated the professionalism and integrity required of today's Air National Guard leaders."

Anderson will oversee all of the 188th Fighter Wing's operations and support functions, as well as manage the full- time force of federal technicians, active Guard and Reserve members and state employees. The 188th consists of approximately 1,000 Airmen. The 188th is equipped with 20 A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthog" aircraft and conducts close-air support, forward air control and combat search and rescue missions.

"I'm energized about the chance to lead this wing and excited about conquering the challenges that lie ahead," Anderson said. "Those challenges are formidable but they are manageable. Our facilities, airspace, training partnerships and community support are unmatched. But it's the courage, devotion, experience and enthusiasm of our hardworking Airmen that will help us surmount those obstacles and carry us through those challenging times. The 188th has always excelled in the face of adversity and I am confident that will continue."

Along with his experience as vice commander, Col. Mark Anderson has served in a number of different positions at the 188th and during his active duty Air Force career.

Anderson joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 2000. He has flown the F-16 Falcon and the A-10. During his tenure at the 188th, he has functioned in multiple roles, including 184th Fighter Squadron commander, 184th director of operations, wing chief of Safety and vice wing commander. His additional duties have included wing conversion project officer, unit compliance inspection project officer and operational readiness inspection project officer.

A command pilot, Anderson has more than 4,000 hours military flight time in the T-37, T-38, OV-10, F-16 and A-10. Upon completion of pilot training in 1987, he was assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., as a forward air controller. At Shaw he flew the OT-37 and OV-10.

During his active duty career he served as a flight commander, wing chief of training, assistant director of operations and director of operations, functional check pilot, mission commander and instructor pilot.

In 1991 he was assigned to Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., for F-16C training. His first operational F-16 assignment was Misawa Air Base Japan as a member of the 14th Fighter Squadron. In 1995 he was assigned to the 27th Fighter Wing, Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., as member of the F-16 conversion team. Anderson also served a one-year tour at Abu Swayr Air Base, Egypt.

Source

Please note: Related hi-res pics are currently not available.

Gauger promoted to 188th Fighter Wing vice commander, colonel

by Maj. Heath Allen
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Col. Thomas Anderson, then-188th Fighter Wing commander, left, swears in then-Lt. Col. Peter Gauger as 188th Fighter Wing vice commander during a formal ceremony April 14. Gauger was also promoted to colonel during the ceremony. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

4/14/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- The 188th Fighter Wing named a new vice wing commander and promoted a new colonel April 14 during a formal ceremony held at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

Col. Pete Gauger was promoted to colonel and elevated to the position of 188th Fighter Wing vice commander during the ceremony, which also included a 188th Mission Support Group change of command. Gauger, the former 188th Mission Support Group commander, handed the group's reins to Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner during the event.

"Col. Gauger's ability to solve complex issues with resolve and determination makes him a true asset to this wing," said Col. Thomas Anderson, then-188th Fighter Wing commander. "Since taking the reins of the Mission Support Group in 2009, Col. Gauger's keen insight, trusted counsel and astute leadership were instrumental in helping the 188th surmount a vast array of challenges. His counsel will without question be an asset to wing leadership as he moves on to his new assignment as the wing's vice commander."

Gauger joined the active duty Air Force in 1979 as an enlisted member in Accounting and Finance. Gauger was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, where he worked in Materiel and Accounts Control for the Comptroller Squadron of Alaska Air Command.

He joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 1985 and served a total of eight years as an enlisted member in the Financial Management (FM) Flight of the Air National Guard before earning a commission as a full-time budget officer in 1992.

Gauger transitioned to an active duty Guard and Reserve position as the 188th's logistics plans officer in 1996. Gauger returned to FM in 2000 as the 188th's comptroller before taking over the wing executive staff officer position in 2005 and was named the Mission Support Group commander in October 2009.

"I am honored that I have been entrusted with the position of vice commander," Gauger said. "I look forward to serving an amazing group of hardworking, driven Airmen who have helped make the 188th one of the best units in the Air National Guard. I have confidence that the dedication of our Airman and the outstanding community support will help ensure the future of the 188th is a bright one."

As vice commander, Gauger will be charged with formulating, planning and providing staff input for operations, deployment, maintenance and support policies. He will furnish leadership and guidance on administration of flying safety for the A-10C Thunderbolt II flying program. He will also evaluate the combat readiness for more than 1,000 authorized personnel.

Source

Please note: Related hi-res pics are currently not available.

Gardner takes command of 188th Mission Support Group

by Airman 1st Class John Hillier
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



New 188th Mission Support Group commander, Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner, right, takes the 188th Mission Support Group guide-on from Col. Thomas Anderson, then-188th Fighter Wing commander, during a formal change-of-command ceremony April 14. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Hannah Landeros, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

4/14/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Local dignitaries, veterans and Airmen gathered in the 188th Fighter Wing's main hangar to witness the change-of-command ceremony for the 188th Mission Support Group held at Ebbing Air National Guard Base Saturday, April 14.

Lt. Col. Tenise Gardner assumed command from Col. Pete Gauger, the outgoing group commander who was promoted to 188th Fighter Wing vice commander during the ceremony.

"As the Mission Support Group says goodbye to an exceptional commander, it welcomes a distinguished and motivated leader ready to author an even brighter future and build upon past successes," said Col. Thomas Anderson, then-188th Fighter Wing commander. "Her vast experience in managing challenging predicaments as well as her fortitude, wisdom and vision give her the attributes necessary to excel in her new position."

Gardner joined the 188th Fighter Wing in 1987 as an enlisted member in information management. She served as the 188th Public Affairs information management specialist until 1989 before moving to the 188th Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) Office.

Gardner earned her commission as the 188th Military Equal Opportunity officer in 1991. She became officer-in-charge of 188th MEO in 1998, before being named the 188th Mission Support Group executive officer in 2000. In 2001, Gardner became the wing's telecommunications manager and took command of the 188th Communications Flight.

"Throughout my career, doors were opened and doors were closed, but I believed in the mission and did my best," said Lt. Col. Gardner. "I am honored to accept this new challenge and promise that I will focus on the mission and do my best. To ensure continued success, we must prepare the next generation of Airmen to meet the uncertain future challenges and remain focused on the mission above all."

The 188th Mission Support Group consists of the Civil Engineering Squadron, Security Forces Squadron, Logistics Readiness Squadron, Force Support Squadron, Communications Flight, and Contracting. All told, Mission Support Group has approximately 350 of the wing's 1,000 personnel.

"Lt. Col. Gardner is indeed a very strong leader and commander, and I believe she is the right person to lead the Mission Support Group," Gauger said. "The quality of our Airmen in Mission Support Group is second to none, and I expect great things from them under Lt. Col. Gardner's command."

Source

Please note: Related hi-res pics are curently not available.

First Bagram shot of fresh deployed A-10C ANG "Rainbow Team" released

Released by 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs



A 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew works as a team repairing an A-10 Thunderbolt at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, April 6, 2012. The 455th EAMXS is responsible for repairing and maintaining military aircraft on Bagram as well as performing preventative maintenance inspections. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ericka Engblom) Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 78-0630 from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG). Visible loadout: GBU-38 JDAMs on stations 4, 5 and 8, GBU-12 on station 7.

Deployed 184th Fighter Squadron A-10Cs identified by serial numbers

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

As already reported, an aircraft package of 18 A-10Cs left Continental United States (CONUS) for Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. According to a well-informed person who likes to remain anonymous, ten of the jets are from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing (Arkansas ANG):

A-10C 78-0583 (Lajes photo proof)
A-10C 78-0613
A-10C 78-0614
A-10C 78-0616
A-10C 78-0621
A-10C 78-0630
A-10C 78-0639 (Lajes photo proof)
A-10C 78-0646
A-10C 80-0166
A-10C 80-0188, marked 188 FW

The others are from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG), including A-10C 79-0082 (Lajes photo proof).

On March 31, all 18 jets arrived at Lajes Field, Azores, for their first stopover.

At Bagram Airfield, the ANG "Rainbow Team" will replace a deployed "Total Force" A-10C team, also consisting of 18 aircraft.

Note: Many thanks to my personal contact for sharing the serial nummers listed above! I would be very grateful for any help to identify the remaining seven 104th Fighter Squadron jets.

188th Fighter Wing deploys 75 Airmen to Afghanistan

by Maj. Heath Allen
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/30/2012 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- The family members of Airmen with the 188th Fighter Wing are already counting the days until their loved ones return home.

Approximately 75 Airmen with the 188th Maintenance Group departed Fort Smith March 29 for Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Airmen will be deployed approximately six months.

The deployment is part of an Air Expeditionary Forces (AEF) rotation, which the 188th is sharing with the Baltimore-based 175th Wing. The 188th Airmen will supplement the 175th during its portion of the rotation.

"It's never easy for families to watch as their loved ones deploy into a combat zone," said Col. Tom Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander. "We appreciate the sacrifice and dedication that our Airmen make and also the sacrifices made by those loved ones left behind. We're confident they will make their wing, families and communities proud. We anxiously await their safe return."

More 188th Airmen will deploy later this summer when the 188th's official portion of the AEF rotation will begin. In total during this AEF rotation, the 188th will deploy approximately 400 Airmen to Afghanistan. They will return this fall.

Last week, the 188th deployed a group of A-10C Thunder bolt II "Warthogs" to the 175th in preparation for onward movement. Multiple 188th aircraft will remain in Baltimore and a number of those aircraft will deploy to Afghanistan.

This is the second AEF deployment for the 188th as a unit since receiving A-10s April 14, 2007. The 188th's last AEF rotation transpired in 2010 when the unit deployed approximately 300 Airmen and 10 A-10Cs to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

While the 188th prepares year-round for its mission, it has conducted an intense training regimen in the past six months in preparation for its AEF rotation. The 188th deployed approximately 300 operations, maintenance and support personnel along with multiple A-10Cs to participate in Operation Snowbird at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 11-26, 2012.

The deployment to Davis-Monthan afforded the 188th with the opportunity to conduct training and gain operational experience in a mountainous, desert terrain, which closely mimics the climate and conditions in Afghanistan.

The A-10 mission in 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 provide aerial reconnaissance on locations of interest to ground commanders.

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

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?

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

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

Operation Snowbird: Stunning air-to-air shots of 184th Fighter Squadron A-10Cs by Jim Haseltine

By Joachim Jacob, Warthog News Editor

I'm surprised by the following three stunning shots, copied this night from the 188th Fighter Wing's official newspaper "The Flying Razorback", March 2012 online PDF issue. These professional photos were taken by Jim "Hazy" Haseltine of HIGH-G Productions.



A four ship of A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" with the 188th Fighter Wing train during a deployment to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 21 as part of Operation Snowbird. The objective of Operation Snowbird was to prepare the Flying Razorbacks for their deployment to Afghanistan this summer. (Photo by Jim Haseltine) Full size

Note: WOW!!! Very best A-10 "Air Ballet" ever seen, probably inspirated by the photographer.



Capt. Josh Parnell, also a pilot with the 188th, fires an AGM-65 Maverick near Davis-Monthan Feb. 20. (Photo by Jim Haseltine) Full size

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0129, firing a live AGM-65 Maverick.



Capt. B.J. Ginger, an A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthog" pilot with the 188th Fighter Wing, drops MK-82s at a range near Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 20 as part of Operation Snowbird training. The objective of Operation Snowbird was to prepare the 188th for its upcoming Air Expeditionary Forces (AEF) rotation to Afghanistan. The Flying Razorbacks deployed approximately 300 operations, maintenance and support personnel to Davis-Monthan. Full size

Note: Pictured is A-10C 80-0166, dropping 500lb Mk. 82 Air Inflatable Retard (AIR) inert training bombs (blue bodies). The Mk. 82 AIR has a parachute pack in the rear of the tailkit that deploys to slow the bomb's descent after drop. This allows the A-10 to escape the impact area, thus decreasing the chances of the jet being damaged by its own bomb's explosion at low altitude.



Source

Operation Snowbird: Training preps 188th for Afghanistan deployment

by Maj. Heath Allen
188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" with the 188th Fighter Wing prepare for takeoff during a deployment to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 21 to participate in Operation Snowbird in preparation for the Flying Razorbacks' deployment to Afghanistan this summer. (National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl, 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

2/27/2012 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz -- To achieve an effective battle rhythm, one must first rehearse the cadence of combat.

The Flying Razorbacks tested their mettle and practiced their aim during a recent deployment to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz., Feb. 11-26 to participate in Operation Snowbird.

Operation Snowbird, which is a National Guard Bureau program located at Davis-Monthan and supported through the Arizona Air National Guard's 162nd Fighter Wing, was established in 1975.

The objective of Operation Snowbird was to prepare the 188th for its upcoming Air Expeditionary Forces (AEF) rotation to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). This will be the 188th's second combat deployment in the A-10 Thunderbolt II "Warthog."

"Snowbird provided us with a great opportunity to train like we're going to fight," said Lt. Col. Brian Burger, 184th Fighter Squadron commander. "It's great training for the weapons load crews, munitions, crew chiefs and support personnel. It's a team effort where everyone can get used to doing what they will be doing in wartime. It's great preparation for going downrange."

The 188th's last AEF tasking occurred in 2010 when the unit deployed approximately 300 operations, maintenance and support personnel to Kandahar, Afghanistan, also in support of OEF. The 188th deployed a similar grouping to Davis-Monthan.

"It's a stair-step process," said Lt. Col. Tim Eddins, 188th Operations Group commander. "The first week was our crawl before we walked and next time we will be running and then we will sprint. We got the chance to get used to the weapons and used to how the airplane operates when you drop live weapons and how the system works. The second week we stepped it up and got a lot more complicated."

The 188th dropped myriad live munitions at Snowbird that it doesn't have opportunity to accomplish at Razorback Range, including GBU-38 JDAMs, GBU-12 LGBs, MK-82s, MK-66 rockets and AGM-65 Mavericks. The 188th also fired 30 MM rounds from the A-10's GAU-8/A seven-barrel Gatling gun.

"The airspace in Fort Smith is very good and we have a top notch range and restricted area as well as a very large military operations area right in our own backyard that goes from 100 feet to 23,000 feet," Burger said. "But we're still a little limited on what types of weapons we can drop because it is still a fairly heavily populated area. At Snowbird, there are several, large tactical ranges carved out where we can drop live ordnance and heavyweight full-scale inert weapons, including laser- and GPS-guided."

The trip to Davis-Monthan also furnished the 188th with the opportunity to hone its skills by conducting training and logging operational experience in a mountainous, desert terrain, which closely mimics the climate and conditions in Afghanistan.

"It's not only an opportunity for the experienced pilots to mentor the pilots who don't have that combat experience," Eddins said. "It's also a great chance for the pilots and maintainers to come together and learn how to work through issues in a training setting so that we'll have a better idea of what the fixes are when we get into combat."

While this summer's deployment will be the 188th's second in the A-10, Eddins said about 30 percent of the unit's pilots have yet to experience combat in the Warthog. Eddins, though, added that only four pilots had endured combat in the A-10 when 188th made its AEF debut in the Warthog in 2010.

"This time we have more experience and leadership because we have more pilots who have gone through many of those combat scenarios in the A-10," Eddins said. "We have a better idea of what steps to take and what steps not to take."

Eddins said that experience showed at Snowbird.

"It's gone a lot smoother between pilots and maintenance because we know the routine better," Eddins said. "It gives us a chance to build that team cohesiveness and camaraderie. We all knew the routine in the F-16 but everything is different in the A-10. From the speed and loiter time to the way you attack targets, it's a lot different."

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.

The 188th will transition to a more rapid battle rhythm in May when it participates in Green Flag-East at Barksdale Air Force Base, La.

Source

Please note: More pictures will be uploaded soon.