A-10 81-0960 from the 81st Fighter Squadron lands at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, July 16, 2009. (Photo by Mike Becker) Full size
Sunday, July 19, 2009
81st Fighter Squadron A-10s caught at Spangdahlem AB, July 16, 2009
A-10 81-0960 from the 81st Fighter Squadron lands at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, July 16, 2009. (Photo by Mike Becker) Full size
Wing’s newest members see A-10’s up close
During the field trip at Saylor Creek target range on July 11, 2009, many members from the Idaho Air National Guard 124th Wing and the 124th Student Flight watch for their first time as the 190th Fighter Squadron's A-10 aircraft fly by them shooting ground weapons at targets near by. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Becky Vanshur) Hi-res
by Tech Sgt Becky Vanshur
124th Wing Public Affairs Office
7/17/2009 - GOWEN FIELD, Boise, Idaho -- More than 50 wing members, including more than 30 new members in the 124th Wing Student Flight, gathered for a field trip to Saylor Creek Training Area south of Mountain Home Air Force Base July 11.
The Saylor Creek visit - the first of its kind - was proposed by State Command Chief Master Sgt. Pete Glick for the student flight members and expanded to include the rest of the wing.
Many of the guard members have never seen weapons being shot from the A-10 aircraft, especially up close. Tech. Sgt. Perry Sharp from the 124th Wing Chaplain's Support Staff said, "I was surprised by the speed of the aircraft. It was an uplifting experience."
The members of the Student Flight got to experience the capabilities of the A-10 aircraft and see the pilots practice their accuracy and skills.
Student flight member Edward Griffith said, "This experience has inspired me to continue with my dreams of becoming a fighter pilot in the Air Force."
A-10 Pilot 1st Lt. Ryan Brown of the 190th Fighter Squadron gave an overview on the different targets located at Saylor Creek and an informative description on how the pilots hit their targets.
Tech. Sgt. Steven Vinsonhaler, NCO in charge of the student flight, said he hopes to keep the idea of two Saylor Creek visits yearly going.
"The turn out was definitely a success, especially for the student flight side. Many of the individuals of the student flight were interested in becoming pilots and now this trip has furthered that interest into a future goal for them. The wing members were excited to see the impact and end result of dropping bombs...an overall powerful trip that is a learning experience and an increase for morale." he said.
Source
The 355th Fighter Wing makes deployment history
by Doug Herndon
355th Fighter Wing History Office
7/17/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Airmen from the 355th Fighter Wing made Air Force history last week by deploying the first A-10C aircraft and maintenance support elements to Afghanistan. The bulk of the deployment occurred Saturday with more than 100 personnel, primarily from the 355th Maintenance group departing on a chartered flight.
"They are motivated and ready to deploy," said Master Sgt. Jose Silva, first sergeant for the 355th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
The Airmen are expected to be gone for six months and return around the beginning of the new year.
Wing personnel are no strangers to Operation Enduring Freedom. Since the beginning of OEF in 2001, the wing's 354th FS "Bulldogs," maintenance and support personnel have deployed four times to Bagram Airfield. The current deployment comes at a time when the President has ordered an increase in the number of military forces in the region.
Along with the deployment notification, the 355th Maintenance Group was also tasked with two major projects: a precision engagement software upgrade, known as Suite 5, and attaching the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods to the jets.
The Suite 5 upgrade, which required uploading the software on the jet's computer system, had to be tested before pilots could train on the new system. The new software, which enhances the display in the cockpit with a much clearer and sharper image, was loaded and made completely functional in less than 60 days.
Another combat milestone will be reached during this deployment as the Bulldogs become the first A-10C unit to utilize the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod in combat. The Sniper ATP allows pilots to locate, identify and track targets on the battlefield. Once the pods were received through the 355th Logistic Readiness Squadron, maintainers, with the aid of Lockheed Martin representatives, prepared the pods for the installation process. After the final checks, the Bulldogs spent several months flying both day and night missions to train on the newly installed equipment.
"Our maintenance personnel worked twelve- to fourteen-hour days, to include weekends. They really burned the midnight oil to ensure these projects were completed," said Mr. Bruce Black, 355th MXG deputy commander.
Source
355th Fighter Wing History Office
7/17/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Airmen from the 355th Fighter Wing made Air Force history last week by deploying the first A-10C aircraft and maintenance support elements to Afghanistan. The bulk of the deployment occurred Saturday with more than 100 personnel, primarily from the 355th Maintenance group departing on a chartered flight.
"They are motivated and ready to deploy," said Master Sgt. Jose Silva, first sergeant for the 355th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
The Airmen are expected to be gone for six months and return around the beginning of the new year.
Wing personnel are no strangers to Operation Enduring Freedom. Since the beginning of OEF in 2001, the wing's 354th FS "Bulldogs," maintenance and support personnel have deployed four times to Bagram Airfield. The current deployment comes at a time when the President has ordered an increase in the number of military forces in the region.
Along with the deployment notification, the 355th Maintenance Group was also tasked with two major projects: a precision engagement software upgrade, known as Suite 5, and attaching the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods to the jets.
The Suite 5 upgrade, which required uploading the software on the jet's computer system, had to be tested before pilots could train on the new system. The new software, which enhances the display in the cockpit with a much clearer and sharper image, was loaded and made completely functional in less than 60 days.
Another combat milestone will be reached during this deployment as the Bulldogs become the first A-10C unit to utilize the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod in combat. The Sniper ATP allows pilots to locate, identify and track targets on the battlefield. Once the pods were received through the 355th Logistic Readiness Squadron, maintainers, with the aid of Lockheed Martin representatives, prepared the pods for the installation process. After the final checks, the Bulldogs spent several months flying both day and night missions to train on the newly installed equipment.
"Our maintenance personnel worked twelve- to fourteen-hour days, to include weekends. They really burned the midnight oil to ensure these projects were completed," said Mr. Bruce Black, 355th MXG deputy commander.
Source
D-M Airmen deploy in support of Operation Enduring Freedom
by 1st Lt. Mary Pekas
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/17/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Nearly 300 Airmen and a number of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 355th Fighter Wing here deployed to Afghanistan last week to support Operation Enduring Freedom.
The wing deployed pilots, maintainers and support personnel primarily from the 354th Fighter Squadron and the 355th Maintenance Group for a tour that will last approximately six months.
The 354th FS "Bulldogs" and the 355th MXG operate and maintain the A-10, an attack aircraft primarily used to provide close air support to ground forces. The A-10 mission also includes combat search and rescue, and forward air control for other combat aircraft.
"The 355th Fighter Wing is ready for combat," said Col. Robert Singleton, 355th Fighter Wing vice commander. "We are sending America's best warriors into harm's way, confident in their ability to successfully execute their mission."
The wing's last A-10 deployment was in 2007 at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, where its pilots flew more than 10,000 hours. Between deployments, the team of pilots and maintenance personnel take advantage of the unique, strategic training opportunities here in our desert landscape.
"The pilots of the 354th Fighter Squadron, under the leadership of Lt. Col. Michael Millen, have honed their skills on the incredible training ranges in southern Arizona. Our highly skilled maintainers have learned to generate combat capability during high operations tempos and temperature extremes," said the colonel. "The terrain, the weather, the airspace - few places offer such ideal training grounds."
While preparation is important to combat success, the colonel added that the Davis-Monthan and Tucson communities enable the mission in other ways.
"What brings our Airmen the most comfort is knowing their families are welcomed and cared for in this community," said Colonel Singleton. "With that assurance, our warriors can focus on bringing the fight to the enemy, and protecting our joint and coalition partners on the ground."
Source
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/17/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Nearly 300 Airmen and a number of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 355th Fighter Wing here deployed to Afghanistan last week to support Operation Enduring Freedom.
The wing deployed pilots, maintainers and support personnel primarily from the 354th Fighter Squadron and the 355th Maintenance Group for a tour that will last approximately six months.
The 354th FS "Bulldogs" and the 355th MXG operate and maintain the A-10, an attack aircraft primarily used to provide close air support to ground forces. The A-10 mission also includes combat search and rescue, and forward air control for other combat aircraft.
"The 355th Fighter Wing is ready for combat," said Col. Robert Singleton, 355th Fighter Wing vice commander. "We are sending America's best warriors into harm's way, confident in their ability to successfully execute their mission."
The wing's last A-10 deployment was in 2007 at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, where its pilots flew more than 10,000 hours. Between deployments, the team of pilots and maintenance personnel take advantage of the unique, strategic training opportunities here in our desert landscape.
"The pilots of the 354th Fighter Squadron, under the leadership of Lt. Col. Michael Millen, have honed their skills on the incredible training ranges in southern Arizona. Our highly skilled maintainers have learned to generate combat capability during high operations tempos and temperature extremes," said the colonel. "The terrain, the weather, the airspace - few places offer such ideal training grounds."
While preparation is important to combat success, the colonel added that the Davis-Monthan and Tucson communities enable the mission in other ways.
"What brings our Airmen the most comfort is knowing their families are welcomed and cared for in this community," said Colonel Singleton. "With that assurance, our warriors can focus on bringing the fight to the enemy, and protecting our joint and coalition partners on the ground."
Source
Friday, July 17, 2009
81st Fighter Squadron A-10s caught at Pampa Range, Belgium, July 2009
This post will be updated in the next couple of days.
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
(Photo by Alain Vandebeek)
Osan Departs for Red Flag Alaska
by Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/17/2009 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Airmen from Osan Air Base joined military members from across the world this week to participate in what is considered the most intense training opportunity available to combat flying units- RED FLAG-Alaska 09-03, scheduled for July 23 - Aug. 7.
This Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercise for U.S. and coalition forces provides joint offensive counter-air, interdiction, close air support, combat search and rescue, and large force employment training in a simulated combat environment.
"Red Flag Alaska provides a high intensity training opportunity that is not available on the Korean Peninsula," said Col. Mark D. Mattison, Red Flag Alaska deployed forces commander. "It is the culmination of a six month training plan for combat flying units. You can only get that training at a Red Flag."
What makes the training so intense is the presence of a dedicated aggressor unit. In addition to focusing on air combat at the tactical and operational levels, the aggressor role expands training opportunities across the board, to include ground, space and cyberspace. This provides the most realistic simulated combat environment possible.
"Outside of combat, Red Flag is the only training opportunity where you can pull all the different building blocks of training together," said Colonel Mattison, who is also the vice commander of the 51st Fighter Wing. "In addition, the Red Flag Alaska airspace and range complex offer an area the size of South Korea for training."
Airmen from Osan's two fighter squadrons, the 25th and the 36th, as well as their maintenance squadrons and support personnel, will participate in the 10-day exercise. Support squadrons from across Osan will also help to get almost 300 people to and from Alaska.
The fighter squadrons, however, are not the only squadrons that have been working for the last three months to prepare.
In early May, wing leadership approached the Maintenance Group with a challenge: "fly dual external tanks on our A-10s to Red Flag."
"Dual tanks had not been used since at least 2002 here in Korea," said Capt. Donald Hutchison 25th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, officer in charge. "The challenges to ready the aircraft have been a huge undertaking that required a team effort by our ops sisters, the logistics readiness squadron and maintenance squadrons to accomplish."
"Despite the long hours, to include weekends in preparation, our commitment is high," said Captain Hutchison."The maintainers have truly worked tirelessly and are excited about the flying opportunity going to Red Flag brings."
Originally named Cope Thunder, the exercise was moved to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, from Clark Air Base, Philippines, in 1992, after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo forced the curtailment of operations, June 15, 1991. Cope Thunder was re-designated Red Flag-Alaska in 2006.
The Alaska exercises take place over Alaskan and Western Canadian airspace. The entire airspace is made up of 17 permanent military operations areas and high altitude training areas, plus two restricted areas, for a total airspace of more than 67,000 square miles.
"Our pilots plan, brief and fly missions against very capable, professional aggressors in the air and on the ground," said Colonel Mattison. "The opportunity to debrief with the aggressors and learn from our mistakes makes us the best Air Force in the world."
A-10s 81-0973 and 80-0153, together with two F-16C Fighting Falcons fly over the Republic of Korea. Airmen from Osan joined Airmen from across the world to participate in Red Flag Alaska 09-03, scheduled for July 23 - Aug. 7. The exercise is considered by many as the most intense training opportunity available to combat flying units. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lt. Col. Judd Fancher) Hi-res
Source
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/17/2009 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Airmen from Osan Air Base joined military members from across the world this week to participate in what is considered the most intense training opportunity available to combat flying units- RED FLAG-Alaska 09-03, scheduled for July 23 - Aug. 7.
This Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercise for U.S. and coalition forces provides joint offensive counter-air, interdiction, close air support, combat search and rescue, and large force employment training in a simulated combat environment.
"Red Flag Alaska provides a high intensity training opportunity that is not available on the Korean Peninsula," said Col. Mark D. Mattison, Red Flag Alaska deployed forces commander. "It is the culmination of a six month training plan for combat flying units. You can only get that training at a Red Flag."
What makes the training so intense is the presence of a dedicated aggressor unit. In addition to focusing on air combat at the tactical and operational levels, the aggressor role expands training opportunities across the board, to include ground, space and cyberspace. This provides the most realistic simulated combat environment possible.
"Outside of combat, Red Flag is the only training opportunity where you can pull all the different building blocks of training together," said Colonel Mattison, who is also the vice commander of the 51st Fighter Wing. "In addition, the Red Flag Alaska airspace and range complex offer an area the size of South Korea for training."
Airmen from Osan's two fighter squadrons, the 25th and the 36th, as well as their maintenance squadrons and support personnel, will participate in the 10-day exercise. Support squadrons from across Osan will also help to get almost 300 people to and from Alaska.
The fighter squadrons, however, are not the only squadrons that have been working for the last three months to prepare.
In early May, wing leadership approached the Maintenance Group with a challenge: "fly dual external tanks on our A-10s to Red Flag."
"Dual tanks had not been used since at least 2002 here in Korea," said Capt. Donald Hutchison 25th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, officer in charge. "The challenges to ready the aircraft have been a huge undertaking that required a team effort by our ops sisters, the logistics readiness squadron and maintenance squadrons to accomplish."
"Despite the long hours, to include weekends in preparation, our commitment is high," said Captain Hutchison."The maintainers have truly worked tirelessly and are excited about the flying opportunity going to Red Flag brings."
Originally named Cope Thunder, the exercise was moved to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, from Clark Air Base, Philippines, in 1992, after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo forced the curtailment of operations, June 15, 1991. Cope Thunder was re-designated Red Flag-Alaska in 2006.
The Alaska exercises take place over Alaskan and Western Canadian airspace. The entire airspace is made up of 17 permanent military operations areas and high altitude training areas, plus two restricted areas, for a total airspace of more than 67,000 square miles.
"Our pilots plan, brief and fly missions against very capable, professional aggressors in the air and on the ground," said Colonel Mattison. "The opportunity to debrief with the aggressors and learn from our mistakes makes us the best Air Force in the world."
A-10s 81-0973 and 80-0153, together with two F-16C Fighting Falcons fly over the Republic of Korea. Airmen from Osan joined Airmen from across the world to participate in Red Flag Alaska 09-03, scheduled for July 23 - Aug. 7. The exercise is considered by many as the most intense training opportunity available to combat flying units. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lt. Col. Judd Fancher) Hi-res
Source
476th Fighter Group brings total-force integration to Flying Tigers
by Bo Joyner
Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs
7/16/2009 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Thanks to Total Force Integration, Air Force Reservists are now helping put the bite into the shark teeth-sporting A-10s of the 23rd Fighter Group at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. The 23rd FG is the home of the world-famous Flying Tigers, and the group's A-10C Thunderbolt IIs are the only Air Force aircraft authorized to feature the unique nose art.
Now, for the first time in the nearly 70-year history of the 23rd FG, Air Force Reserve pilots, maintainers and medical specialists are working alongside their active-duty Flying Tiger counterparts on a daily basis. Air Force Reserve Command's 476th FG recently stood up as a classic associate unit linked to the 23rd FG. The 476th FG is home to the 76th Fighter Squadron, 476th Maintenance Squadron and 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight.
While the 476th has officially existed since February, the group conducted a formal activation ceremony July 11 at Moody presided over by Col. Mark Clemons, commander of the 442nd Fighter Wing, which serves as the group's higher headquarters. The 442nd, based at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., oversees the 476th FG's administrative and mission-support needs not provided by Moody's host, active-duty wing.
The group works under its own command structure but integrates its operations with the 23rd Wing's 74th and 75th Fighter Squadrons and 23rd Maintenance Group. The Reservists bring a broad range of experience and provide continuity that increases the 23rd FG's overall operational capability. TFI is the Air Force's overall plan to capitalize on the strengths of both the active duty and Reserve by integrating regular and Reserve forces in day-to-day operations.
At Moody, TFI is quickly taking hold.
"We've come a long way since last spring when about four of us started building the 476th Fighter Group here," said Col. Greg Eckfeld, the 476th commander.
The group currently has approximately 115 people -- traditional Reservists, air reserve technicians and civilians. Eventually, the 476th will grow to about 230 traditional Reservists and full-timers, including 20 in the 76th FS, 160 in the 476th MXS and 23 in the medical flight. The remaining people will serve on the group staff.
"We've been focused on hiring, and we will continue to focus on hiring until we're fully manned," Colonel Eckfeld said. "We're bringing in qualified individuals with a lot of experience who are adding to the synergy we have going with the Flying Tigers."
Once hired, new members of the 476th FG are wasting no time blending in with their active-duty counterparts at Moody.
"We're integrated with the 23rd in training and operations, on the flight line, in the maintenance shops, and with the AEF (aerospace expeditionary force) rotations the Flying Tigers are going through," the colonel said. "We've already deployed two pilots for a 60-day rotation and have a crew chief deployed right now and another pilot and two more crew chiefs lined up to go."
"We'll be sending even more people in the next AEF cycle," said Chief Master Sgt. Stacy Walker, 476th MXS aircraft maintenance unit superintendent. "As our squadron grows, we'll be able to deploy more of our Reservists."
In the meantime, the Reservists helping maintain the A-10Cs at Moody are sharing their years of knowledge and experience with the Flying Tigers' active-duty maintainers.
"There are a lot of young active-duty troops here, and they lean heavily on us," Chief Walker said. "And their leadership encourages it. Our maintainers average 20 to 25 years of experience, so we have a lot to bring to the fight."
"The Reservists definitely bring a lot of experience and expertise with them," said Tech. Sgt. Travis Stroyick, a maintainer with the active-duty 23rd MXG. "When I have a master sergeant out there who's been working on A-10s for 20 years, I'm definitely going to use him to share his knowledge with my younger troops."
"From a flying standpoint, as the active-duty pilots come and go, having Reserve pilots here will give us a base of continuity to work from," said Capt. Brian Hatch, a Reserve pilot with the 76th FS. "Right now, we're the new ones, so we are relying heavily on the active duty to get us spun up. But, eventually, we'll be the ones counted on to provide the experience and continuity. In addition, we'll volunteer for deployments to lighten the load on the active-duty pilots so they don't have to go again and again. It takes a little bit of the burden off of them."
The 476th FG has reached initial operational capability status, and Colonel Eckfeld believes the group will be fully operational in a couple of years. He said the plan is for the group to launch and recover its first A-10 autonomously August 1.
They almost pulled that feat off during a modified flying operation in March.
"We recently recovered two cross-country jets, one piloted by a Reservist and the other by an active-duty member, where we relied on the active duty in a very limited manner," Chief Walker said. "We pulled it off primarily on our own."
The group reached another milestone during its March unit training assembly when the medical squadron conducted its first personal health assessments.
"The 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight is an extremely important part of our operation here, and it is almost fully manned," Colonel Eckfeld said.
In addition to several medical technician positions, the 476th AMDF includes flight surgeons, nurses and a dentist who monitor the group's medical readiness.
The colonel said the cooperation between the active duty and the Reserve has been phenomenal.
"We've received a very warm reception from the 23rd Fighter Group," he said.
"They're converting from the A- to the C-model, they had a UCI (unit compliance inspection) last summer, they have an ORI (operational readiness inspection) coming up in September, and they have AEF deployments on-going. Yet, they still have taken the time to aggressively work our integration. We're excited about being here at Moody and proud to be partners with the world-famous Flying Tigers."
Source
Related info:
Tigers with new stripes -- AFRC activates new associate A-10 unit at Moody AFB
476th Fighter Group (AFRC) video clip released
Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs
7/16/2009 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Thanks to Total Force Integration, Air Force Reservists are now helping put the bite into the shark teeth-sporting A-10s of the 23rd Fighter Group at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. The 23rd FG is the home of the world-famous Flying Tigers, and the group's A-10C Thunderbolt IIs are the only Air Force aircraft authorized to feature the unique nose art.
Now, for the first time in the nearly 70-year history of the 23rd FG, Air Force Reserve pilots, maintainers and medical specialists are working alongside their active-duty Flying Tiger counterparts on a daily basis. Air Force Reserve Command's 476th FG recently stood up as a classic associate unit linked to the 23rd FG. The 476th FG is home to the 76th Fighter Squadron, 476th Maintenance Squadron and 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight.
While the 476th has officially existed since February, the group conducted a formal activation ceremony July 11 at Moody presided over by Col. Mark Clemons, commander of the 442nd Fighter Wing, which serves as the group's higher headquarters. The 442nd, based at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., oversees the 476th FG's administrative and mission-support needs not provided by Moody's host, active-duty wing.
The group works under its own command structure but integrates its operations with the 23rd Wing's 74th and 75th Fighter Squadrons and 23rd Maintenance Group. The Reservists bring a broad range of experience and provide continuity that increases the 23rd FG's overall operational capability. TFI is the Air Force's overall plan to capitalize on the strengths of both the active duty and Reserve by integrating regular and Reserve forces in day-to-day operations.
At Moody, TFI is quickly taking hold.
"We've come a long way since last spring when about four of us started building the 476th Fighter Group here," said Col. Greg Eckfeld, the 476th commander.
The group currently has approximately 115 people -- traditional Reservists, air reserve technicians and civilians. Eventually, the 476th will grow to about 230 traditional Reservists and full-timers, including 20 in the 76th FS, 160 in the 476th MXS and 23 in the medical flight. The remaining people will serve on the group staff.
"We've been focused on hiring, and we will continue to focus on hiring until we're fully manned," Colonel Eckfeld said. "We're bringing in qualified individuals with a lot of experience who are adding to the synergy we have going with the Flying Tigers."
Once hired, new members of the 476th FG are wasting no time blending in with their active-duty counterparts at Moody.
"We're integrated with the 23rd in training and operations, on the flight line, in the maintenance shops, and with the AEF (aerospace expeditionary force) rotations the Flying Tigers are going through," the colonel said. "We've already deployed two pilots for a 60-day rotation and have a crew chief deployed right now and another pilot and two more crew chiefs lined up to go."
"We'll be sending even more people in the next AEF cycle," said Chief Master Sgt. Stacy Walker, 476th MXS aircraft maintenance unit superintendent. "As our squadron grows, we'll be able to deploy more of our Reservists."
In the meantime, the Reservists helping maintain the A-10Cs at Moody are sharing their years of knowledge and experience with the Flying Tigers' active-duty maintainers.
"There are a lot of young active-duty troops here, and they lean heavily on us," Chief Walker said. "And their leadership encourages it. Our maintainers average 20 to 25 years of experience, so we have a lot to bring to the fight."
"The Reservists definitely bring a lot of experience and expertise with them," said Tech. Sgt. Travis Stroyick, a maintainer with the active-duty 23rd MXG. "When I have a master sergeant out there who's been working on A-10s for 20 years, I'm definitely going to use him to share his knowledge with my younger troops."
"From a flying standpoint, as the active-duty pilots come and go, having Reserve pilots here will give us a base of continuity to work from," said Capt. Brian Hatch, a Reserve pilot with the 76th FS. "Right now, we're the new ones, so we are relying heavily on the active duty to get us spun up. But, eventually, we'll be the ones counted on to provide the experience and continuity. In addition, we'll volunteer for deployments to lighten the load on the active-duty pilots so they don't have to go again and again. It takes a little bit of the burden off of them."
The 476th FG has reached initial operational capability status, and Colonel Eckfeld believes the group will be fully operational in a couple of years. He said the plan is for the group to launch and recover its first A-10 autonomously August 1.
They almost pulled that feat off during a modified flying operation in March.
"We recently recovered two cross-country jets, one piloted by a Reservist and the other by an active-duty member, where we relied on the active duty in a very limited manner," Chief Walker said. "We pulled it off primarily on our own."
The group reached another milestone during its March unit training assembly when the medical squadron conducted its first personal health assessments.
"The 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight is an extremely important part of our operation here, and it is almost fully manned," Colonel Eckfeld said.
In addition to several medical technician positions, the 476th AMDF includes flight surgeons, nurses and a dentist who monitor the group's medical readiness.
The colonel said the cooperation between the active duty and the Reserve has been phenomenal.
"We've received a very warm reception from the 23rd Fighter Group," he said.
"They're converting from the A- to the C-model, they had a UCI (unit compliance inspection) last summer, they have an ORI (operational readiness inspection) coming up in September, and they have AEF deployments on-going. Yet, they still have taken the time to aggressively work our integration. We're excited about being here at Moody and proud to be partners with the world-famous Flying Tigers."
Source
Related info:
Tigers with new stripes -- AFRC activates new associate A-10 unit at Moody AFB
476th Fighter Group (AFRC) video clip released
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
D-M A-10Cs logged at Lajes Field enroute Afghanistan
As on Scramble Message Board reported, twelve A-10Cs from the 355th Fighter Wing, Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, arrived as Mazda 11-16 and Mazda 21-26 at Lajes Field, Azores, in the evening hours on July 11, 2009. Supporting tankers were two 305th AMW KC-10s and one IA ANG and one NE ANG KC-135.
Portuguese photographer and Warthog News contributor André Inácio logged eleven of them:
78-0709, 79-0202, 80-0142, 80-0150, 80-0155, 80-0179, 80-0280, 80-0246, 81-0948, 81-0950, 82-0663
Related info:
Additional OEF A-10 unit for Kandahar, Afghanistan?
Hundreds from D-M will fight Taliban
Portuguese photographer and Warthog News contributor André Inácio logged eleven of them:
78-0709, 79-0202, 80-0142, 80-0150, 80-0155, 80-0179, 80-0280, 80-0246, 81-0948, 81-0950, 82-0663
Related info:
Additional OEF A-10 unit for Kandahar, Afghanistan?
Hundreds from D-M will fight Taliban
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Tigers with new stripes -- AFRC activates new associate A-10 unit at Moody AFB
by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
On A-10C 79-0141, Tech. Sgt. Scott Lopez, an A-10 Thunderbolt II crew chief with the 476th Maintenance Squadron, reveals the name of A-10 pilot, Lt. Col. Bill James, in a special unit-activation ceremony held at Moody AB, Georgia, July 11, 2009. Colonel James is the commander of the newly activated 76th Fighter Squadron, part of an Air Force Reserve Command A-10 associate unit here. The parent unit of the 476th MXS, the also newly-formed 476th Fighter Group, fly's the 23rd Wing's aircraft in a program that is a partnership with the Regular Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
7/11/2009 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The Air Force's historic Flying Tigers officially came to the Air Force Reserve Command as the 476th Fighter Group was activated in a ceremony here, July 11.
The stand up of the 476th FG -- with its subordinate units, the 76th Fighter Squadron, the 476th Maintenance Squadron and the 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight -- is also historic as it officially brings Total Force Integration to Moody AFB with 476th Citizen Airmen flying and maintaining the 23rd Wing's A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft in the Air Force's first A-10 fighter- associate unit partnership.
During the ceremony Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th FG commander, spoke of the great distance the group has come since its start in 2008 as a detachment of the 442nd Fighter Wing, which is based at Whiteman AFB, Mo.
"A little more than a year ago I arrived at Moody, excited, but wondering how I, and a group of four other initial personnel , were going to grow this organization and if we could integrate Citizen Airmen from the Air Force Reserve with our active-duty counterparts," Colonel Eckfeld said. "I can say without question, we have been successful."
According to the colonel, this has been accomplished while supporting real-world, combat operations with pilots and crew chiefs deploying for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
Colonel Eckfeld also thanked his people for all of their hard work in making it happen and emphasized his gratitude to Moody's host unit for their contributions in the effort to make TFI a reality.
"My future challenge and primary goals are, first, recruiting and then integrating traditional reservists and Air Reserve Technicians into the busy operations tempo of the 23rd Wing," Colonel Eckfeld said. "Our challenge is building integrated organizations that operate seamlessly with both active-duty personnel and reservists working side by side in this busy environment."
The event, presided over by Col. Mark Clemons, 442nd FW commander, followed the time-honored tradition of unfurling each unit's guidon flags, and introducing the new commanders. It included a special salute to the 476th FG and 76th FS commanders by their respective aircraft crew chiefs as commanders' names were revealed painted on the sides of two A-10s.
Underscoring the group's pioneering role in the Air Force, Colonel Clemons recounted the 76th Fighter Squadron's heritage from its start in China as the American Volunteer Group and subsequent organization as an official Army Air Forces squadron during World War II.
"Once again, the 76th is pioneering new ways of applying combat aerospace power," Colonel Clemons said of the 76th FS. "With its reincarnation as the 76th Fighter Squadron, this proud and storied unit will be the first-ever A-10 associate unit, flying a unique combat aircraft, which has been modified for the digital age - the A-10C."
Group members, standing in formation, rendered salutes to their new leaders as the ceremony progressed. Recognizing the significance of the event, some later expressed their pride, as well as a determination to become a TFI team player.
"We are here and we are ready to support the active-duty," said Master Sgt. Stacey Moore, 476th AMDF. "We are stepping forward in a new thing and we are going to make it work."
Col. Mark Clemons, 442nd Fighter Wing commander, and Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th Fighter Group commander, reveal the newly-activated 476th FG's guidon flag in a special activation ceremony at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., July 11, 2009. The 476th FG, an Air Force Reserve Command A-10 Thunderbolt II unit will fly the 23rd Wing's -- Moody's host unit -- A-10s in a partnership with the Regular Air Force. The 442nd FW, based at Whiteman AFB, Mo., is the 476th FG's parent unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th Fighter Group commander, addresses the newly-activated 476th FG. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Lt. Col. Stuart Moore, 76th Fighter Squadron director of operations, leads the assembled, newly-activated 476th Fighter Group in a salute to the Group's commander Col. Greg Eckfeld. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Source
Related info:
476th Fighter Group (AFRC) vido clip released
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
On A-10C 79-0141, Tech. Sgt. Scott Lopez, an A-10 Thunderbolt II crew chief with the 476th Maintenance Squadron, reveals the name of A-10 pilot, Lt. Col. Bill James, in a special unit-activation ceremony held at Moody AB, Georgia, July 11, 2009. Colonel James is the commander of the newly activated 76th Fighter Squadron, part of an Air Force Reserve Command A-10 associate unit here. The parent unit of the 476th MXS, the also newly-formed 476th Fighter Group, fly's the 23rd Wing's aircraft in a program that is a partnership with the Regular Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
7/11/2009 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The Air Force's historic Flying Tigers officially came to the Air Force Reserve Command as the 476th Fighter Group was activated in a ceremony here, July 11.
The stand up of the 476th FG -- with its subordinate units, the 76th Fighter Squadron, the 476th Maintenance Squadron and the 476th Aerospace Medicine Flight -- is also historic as it officially brings Total Force Integration to Moody AFB with 476th Citizen Airmen flying and maintaining the 23rd Wing's A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft in the Air Force's first A-10 fighter- associate unit partnership.
During the ceremony Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th FG commander, spoke of the great distance the group has come since its start in 2008 as a detachment of the 442nd Fighter Wing, which is based at Whiteman AFB, Mo.
"A little more than a year ago I arrived at Moody, excited, but wondering how I, and a group of four other initial personnel , were going to grow this organization and if we could integrate Citizen Airmen from the Air Force Reserve with our active-duty counterparts," Colonel Eckfeld said. "I can say without question, we have been successful."
According to the colonel, this has been accomplished while supporting real-world, combat operations with pilots and crew chiefs deploying for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
Colonel Eckfeld also thanked his people for all of their hard work in making it happen and emphasized his gratitude to Moody's host unit for their contributions in the effort to make TFI a reality.
"My future challenge and primary goals are, first, recruiting and then integrating traditional reservists and Air Reserve Technicians into the busy operations tempo of the 23rd Wing," Colonel Eckfeld said. "Our challenge is building integrated organizations that operate seamlessly with both active-duty personnel and reservists working side by side in this busy environment."
The event, presided over by Col. Mark Clemons, 442nd FW commander, followed the time-honored tradition of unfurling each unit's guidon flags, and introducing the new commanders. It included a special salute to the 476th FG and 76th FS commanders by their respective aircraft crew chiefs as commanders' names were revealed painted on the sides of two A-10s.
Underscoring the group's pioneering role in the Air Force, Colonel Clemons recounted the 76th Fighter Squadron's heritage from its start in China as the American Volunteer Group and subsequent organization as an official Army Air Forces squadron during World War II.
"Once again, the 76th is pioneering new ways of applying combat aerospace power," Colonel Clemons said of the 76th FS. "With its reincarnation as the 76th Fighter Squadron, this proud and storied unit will be the first-ever A-10 associate unit, flying a unique combat aircraft, which has been modified for the digital age - the A-10C."
Group members, standing in formation, rendered salutes to their new leaders as the ceremony progressed. Recognizing the significance of the event, some later expressed their pride, as well as a determination to become a TFI team player.
"We are here and we are ready to support the active-duty," said Master Sgt. Stacey Moore, 476th AMDF. "We are stepping forward in a new thing and we are going to make it work."
Col. Mark Clemons, 442nd Fighter Wing commander, and Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th Fighter Group commander, reveal the newly-activated 476th FG's guidon flag in a special activation ceremony at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., July 11, 2009. The 476th FG, an Air Force Reserve Command A-10 Thunderbolt II unit will fly the 23rd Wing's -- Moody's host unit -- A-10s in a partnership with the Regular Air Force. The 442nd FW, based at Whiteman AFB, Mo., is the 476th FG's parent unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Col. Greg Eckfeld, 476th Fighter Group commander, addresses the newly-activated 476th FG. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Lt. Col. Stuart Moore, 76th Fighter Squadron director of operations, leads the assembled, newly-activated 476th Fighter Group in a salute to the Group's commander Col. Greg Eckfeld. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington) Hi-res
Source
Related info:
476th Fighter Group (AFRC) vido clip released
Friday, July 10, 2009
Additional OEF A-10 unit for Kandahar, Afghanistan?
There are signs Air Combat Command (ACC) and U.S. Air Forces Central (USAFCENT) will establish a second A-10 expeditionary fighter squadron for Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.
On July 2, 2009, the 451st Air Expeditionary Group at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, transitioned to the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing. Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh, former commander of the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, and an A-10 pilot, assumed command of the 451st AEW.
Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh stands ready to give his first remarks as the new Wing commander for the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing here after an assumption of command and activation ceremony July 2, 2009. The 451st transitioned from a group to a wing at 7 a.m. as Lt. General Gary L. North, 9th Air Force and Air Forces Central commander, handed Gen. Walsh the guidon. General Walsh was the wing commander for the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, Baltimore, Maryland, before accepting his assignment here. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Noelle Caldwell)
In his first remarks, Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh announced an A-10 deployment in the near future. See video 451st AEW Activation
On the other hand, elements from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany, still are slated to deploy with at least twelve of their upgraded A-10Cs to deploy as 81st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron to Bagram AB, Afghanistan, as part of USAF's upcoming AEF 1/2 (Cycle 8) rotation (September - December 2009).
On July 8, 2009, the Arizona Daily Star reported: "Hundreds of Tucson airmen are headed to Afghanistan to help shore up the U.S. military's renewed focus on the region. About 300 pilots, aircraft mechanics and support personnel from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base are due to leave by week's end for a six-month tour overseas. A squadron of D-M's A-10 Thunderbolt II attack jets will lead the way, departing first. The jets will be followed a day or two later by remaining personnel from D-M's 354th "Bulldogs" Fighter Squadron and the 355th Maintenance Group."
That suggest, elements of the 354th Fighter Squadron will deploy as 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron.
With the headline "D-M Airmen Kandahar Deployment", today 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs released the following pictures:
Col. Robert Singleton, the 355th Fighter Wing vice commander, talks to Airmen as they prepare to deploy to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Several Airmen load pallets onto a plane, preparing for a deployment to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Several D-M Airmen move their bags onto a truck in preparation for their deployment to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
A group of Airmen walk to their plane July 6, 2009. The Airmen are deploying to Kandahar, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Related info:
451st makes history, stands up as wing
451st AEW Activation (Video)
Hundreds from D-M will fight Taliban (Arizona Daily Star)
On July 2, 2009, the 451st Air Expeditionary Group at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, transitioned to the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing. Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh, former commander of the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, and an A-10 pilot, assumed command of the 451st AEW.
Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh stands ready to give his first remarks as the new Wing commander for the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing here after an assumption of command and activation ceremony July 2, 2009. The 451st transitioned from a group to a wing at 7 a.m. as Lt. General Gary L. North, 9th Air Force and Air Forces Central commander, handed Gen. Walsh the guidon. General Walsh was the wing commander for the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, Baltimore, Maryland, before accepting his assignment here. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Noelle Caldwell)
In his first remarks, Brigadier General Guy M. Walsh announced an A-10 deployment in the near future. See video 451st AEW Activation
On the other hand, elements from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany, still are slated to deploy with at least twelve of their upgraded A-10Cs to deploy as 81st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron to Bagram AB, Afghanistan, as part of USAF's upcoming AEF 1/2 (Cycle 8) rotation (September - December 2009).
On July 8, 2009, the Arizona Daily Star reported: "Hundreds of Tucson airmen are headed to Afghanistan to help shore up the U.S. military's renewed focus on the region. About 300 pilots, aircraft mechanics and support personnel from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base are due to leave by week's end for a six-month tour overseas. A squadron of D-M's A-10 Thunderbolt II attack jets will lead the way, departing first. The jets will be followed a day or two later by remaining personnel from D-M's 354th "Bulldogs" Fighter Squadron and the 355th Maintenance Group."
That suggest, elements of the 354th Fighter Squadron will deploy as 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron.
With the headline "D-M Airmen Kandahar Deployment", today 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs released the following pictures:
Col. Robert Singleton, the 355th Fighter Wing vice commander, talks to Airmen as they prepare to deploy to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Several Airmen load pallets onto a plane, preparing for a deployment to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Several D-M Airmen move their bags onto a truck in preparation for their deployment to Kandahar, Afghanistan July 6, 2009, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
A group of Airmen walk to their plane July 6, 2009. The Airmen are deploying to Kandahar, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brittany Dowdle) Hi-res
Related info:
451st makes history, stands up as wing
451st AEW Activation (Video)
Hundreds from D-M will fight Taliban (Arizona Daily Star)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
