Vehicle operators with the 92nd Logistics Readiness Squadron have returned home to Fairchild AFB, Wash., after serving in Iraq as the last contingent of Air Force gun-truck operators. The Fairchild airmen turned the gun-truck security mission over to the Army. The Air Force will continue to supply convoy vehicle operators, but soldiers will provide security. During their time in Iraq, the Fairchild airmen said they integrated completely with the soldiers on convoy duty, but it took time to earn their respect. The Fairchild contingent experienced a high number of improvised explosive device attacks but had “fewer injuries than anyone else,” said SSgt. Scott Cunningham, adding, “After a time, … even the Army units were requesting Air Force gun truck escort security.”
In a show force over the Pacific, the U.S. conducted separate bilateral exercises with South Korea and Japan in response to North Korea’s May 24 ballistic missile test. The North’s test reportedly included an intercontinental ballistic missile, launched while President Joe Biden flew home from the region. Also on May…