Defense Secretary Robert Gates visited Lackland AFB, Tex., on July 24 to get a first-hand look at the Air Force’s basic military training and speak with the service’s newest crop of airmen before they received their airman’s coin in a ceremony. “Earlier today, I got the opportunity to observe some of the training and exercises here,” Gates said. “I’m impressed to say the least.” He also emphasized the importance of the Air Force for the defense of the nation. “Without the Air Force the war effort would grind to a halt,” he said. “Every soldier and marine in Iraq and Afghanistan is profoundly grateful to have you overhead.” (Lackland report by SSgt. Jeremy Larlee)
Hawaii F-22s Wrap Up Deployment to Japan
April 9, 2021
F-22s and Airmen from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, forward deployed to Japan for almost one month to train with Japanese and U.S. Marine Corps aircraft as part of a “dynamic force employment” operation. The Raptors from the Active-duty 19th Fighter Squadron and Air National Guard 199th Fighter Squadron deployed…