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Idaho Air National Guard deploying to the Middle
East |
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March 4, 2016 |
The Idaho Air National Guard is preparing to
make its first major deployment in the U.S.-led
fight against the Islamic State group.
More than 500 members of the 124th Fighter Wing
based at Gowen Field in Boise will depart for
the Middle East this spring and summer as part
of Operation Inherent Resolve.
The mission will include multiple aircraft,
pilots, maintenance personnel, security forces,
medical personnel and various other support
staff.
In response to our questioning of Idaho National
Guard staff, they report that no Boundary County
residents are included as part of this
deployment (if you are aware of a local resident
being deployed, please let us know).
Deployments typically last up to 180 days, with
multiple departures spread out over the next
several months.
“This deployment highlights the dedication of
the 124th Fighter Wing and its members, as well
as the community of families, state and local
leaders, neighbors and employers who have
demonstrated once again their steadfast and
unwavering support of Idaho’s service members,”
Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said. “The impact on
the community is recognized and their sacrifice
is deeply appreciated.”
The Idaho Air National Guard is celebrating its
70th year of flying fighter aircraft in defense
of our nation. The 124th Fighter Wing has always
answered when called upon, and this deployment
is the embodiment of what it means to be an
Airman and an Idaho Air National Guardsman.
"The 124th Fighter Wing is constantly supporting
combat operations by sending small numbers of
airmen overseas routinely," said Major
Christopher Borders of the Idaho National Guard.
"What makes this coming deployment significant
is the large number of personnel deploying."
With ever-increasing threats both locally and
nationwide, the Idaho Air National Guard
continually trains to support not only its state
mission within the State of Idaho, but also in
support of its federal mission of addressing
threats around the globe. |
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