Air Force

FAIRBANKS, Alaska – The Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce hosted the 53rd annual Military Appreciation Banquet at the Carlson Center August 24, 2023, to pay tribute to military members living and serving in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks Chamber recognized both active duty and Guard and two civilians for their exceptional achievements and volunteer efforts in support of the military community.

“The Military Appreciation Banquet is more than just an event; it’s a heartwarming celebration that bridges the gap between our vibrant community and the dedicated military partners who serve among us here in the Interior,” said Lisa Cassino, the master of ceremonies for the banquet and the vice president of public relations for Usibelli Coal Mine, the banquet’s presenting sponsor. “This unique evening of dinner and recognition allows us to forge lifelong friendships that unite the community and the military in a shared commitment to honor, respect, and support.”

With more than 600 people in attendance, the community celebrated the military members during the black-tie event.

Lt. Col. Matt McClurg, 168th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, was in attendance supporting the Airmen from the 168th Wing at Eielson. He said, “The amount of support, loyalty, and patriotism the Fairbanks community shows its military members is incredible. Fairbanks businesses and citizens embrace us as an integral part of this community and give us a sense of belonging and friendliness unparalleled to other communities. Fairbanks doesn’t just talk the talk; they show their loyalty in numerous ways to the military community in their action, perfectly demonstrated by the Military Appreciation Banquet.”

The military appreciation banquet is an annual tradition in Fairbanks and began in the 1960s with Jim Messer, a veteran himself, and his wife, Rosemary. During the early years, the Messers hosted dinners in their home to show gratitude to the service members stationed in the Golden Heart community. As time went on, their in-home dinner became a banquet hosting hundreds of people.

“It was my privilege to plan this extraordinary event for the first time, and it was an experience that touched my soul and revealed the profound love and appreciation our small town has for its military heroes,” said Elora Swan-Song, Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce. “The meticulous preparation that went into setting up over 60 tables, folding hundreds of napkins, and polishing each piece of silverware was a testament to the love and respect our community holds for its military presence. Fairbanks, without a doubt, is a military town, and it owes much of its prosperity and vibrancy to the dedicated service of our military personnel.”

Swan-Song was honored to give back to military members as part of the Fairbanks Chamber. She said, “What makes this event truly exceptional is the unity it fosters. People from diverse backgrounds and organizations, with varying views and ideas, join forces as one cohesive team to ensure we honor those who make immense sacrifices to protect our freedom. It is a powerful reminder that when it comes to appreciating our military, there are no boundaries or divisions. We are all united by a single purpose: to express our gratitude and admiration for the selflessness and bravery of those who serve.”

Gen. Ken S. Wilsbach, commander of Pacific Air Forces, The Air Component Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and the executive director of Pacific Air Combat Operation, was the distinguished guest speaker who spoke about the importance of Alaska and its strategic importance for a free and open Indo-Pacific for the world.

“Alaska is closer to Taiwan than Hawaii is, “which is why it’s so important we have the Air Force and Army Forces here and can deploy at a moment’s notice if we need them to go forward.”

He said the military can do training in Alaska they can’t do in the rest of the world, and we couldn’t do that without the support of Alaskans.

“This place is an amazing place to train,” Wilsbach said. “We are so grateful for what we can do here to train to be ready for when you call us to execute our mission.”

Wilsbach has been stationed in Alaska multiple times and said Alaska is his home. He shared a story about being invited to someone’s home with their family for Christmas and the tremendous support he received here. He said the communities around bases and posts are friendly to the military, but that support is bigger and better in Alaska.

Wilsbach said Alaskans appreciate military members who serve and put it into action, and that’s why so many military members come to Alaska and retire. “It’s not just the place, it’s the people.”

Community members were paired up with military guests at the dinner tables.

“The support from the Golden Heart community felt palpable tonight,” said Lt. Col. Elizabeth Mangini, 168th Wing. “This inspires me to honor that tradition and pay it forward to this wonderful community as I transition into my civilian career at UAF. “In the coming years, I will reciprocate the support in my research and by being a future sponsor of this sacred annual Military Appreciation Dinner. That is what Alaskans have taught me to do, Alaskans help Alaskans in uniform and beyond.”

In a pre-recorded message, honorary host Sen. Lisa Murkowski thanked the military for their service and the difference they make and the community for supporting them. She shared her memories of growing up attending Fairbanks Military Appreciation banquets.

Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce members go the extra mile in making the details perfect for the event to honor and celebrate military members. The evening was full of gratitude for the community to both military and community members.

“As the planner of this event, it was a profound honor to dedicate my time and efforts to uplift our nation and protectors,” said Swan-Song. “However, the most awe-inspiring moment came during the banquet itself. Standing in a room filled with beautifully dressed individuals, I couldn’t help but be humbled and moved. Each person in that room, in their unique way, is making daily sacrifices for the sake of our community and our nation. It was a sobering reminder that the spirit of unity and gratitude can truly transform a simple banquet into a profound symbol of appreciation and respect for those who stand on the front lines to defend our freedom.”

Military dignitaries included the commander of Alaskan NORAD Region, Alaskan Command and 11th Air Force Lt. Gen. David Nahom, 354th Wing Commander Col. Paul Townsend, Fort Wainwright Commander Col. Jason Cole, Chief Master Sgt. David Wolfe, Col. Nate Surrey, 168th Wing Commander Col. Michael Griesbaum, USAG Alaska Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Ruben Murillo, and Col. Tom Burke.

Military leaders delivered the Jim Messer Award to Mayor Bryce Ward for his efforts advocating for military quality of life initiatives and housing developments, building and leasing homes as a contractor, owning a small business, and serving the community as a servant leader. Ward thanked the community and told the crowd he was honored to receive the award.

The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) welcomed the 302nd Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion with an activation ceremony at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Sept. 15, 2022.

The 302nd Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion (IEW) will provide multi-domain intelligence collection capabilities to the 101st Airborne Division, enhancing the Division’s intelligence readiness.

Originally known as the 302nd Military Intelligence Battalion, the unit was first organized April 1, 1944, as the 3252 Signal Company, seeing service in Germany and France During World War Two. The Battalion deactivated in 2008 after a long history of supporting intelligence operations around the world.

The Battalion’s reactivation is part of ongoing force modernization efforts to ensure the 101st Airborne is ready to face near-peer threats on a modern battlefield. The addition of the 302nd IEW Battalion is part of a larger Army transformation that recognizes changing global threats, the need to re-focus on large-scale combat operations, and the necessity of keeping pace with adversaries.

“Today was a momentous occasion for not only the U.S. Army but also the 101st Airborne Division,” said Col. Jared B. Harty, Commander of the 525th Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade. “Now the Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division possesses an Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion that can provide muti-disciplined intelligence support to support his priorities and initiatives.”

The 302nd IEW Battalion is led by Lt. Col. Benjamin Polanco Jr. and Command Sgt. Maj. David A. Scott.

The historic location of the activation and continuing the history of the 302nd was of critical importance to the Battalion Commander. “This activation signifies the return of a legacy,” said Polanco. “A legacy that we (The Sly Fox Soldiers) are excited to continue.”

Story by: Senior Airman Margaret Klenck

Courtesy photos: Senior Airman Michael Gula

U.S. Air Force Civilian Laura Webster of the 691st Cyberspace Operations Squadron was awarded the 86th Airlift Wing Airlifter of the week Award June 23, 2023 at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany. She was awarded by U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Otis Jones and Chief Master Sergeant Charmaine Kelley for her hard work and dedication in the Command Support Section of the squadron.

Webster’s efforts support the daily administration that enables the unit’s mission to operate and defend Air Force networks to advance the Air Force core missions.

“My 691 COS family is inspiring me to spread love and kindness and make me better every day,” said Webster. “I couldn’t do it without my Hellhounds! And of course, all the snacks they provide me.”

Before arriving at the 691 COS, Webster experienced a dynamic journey before arriving at the 691st. Hailing from a quaint Thai village, she traveled Europe throughout her childhood and felt that she never quite finding her place. From England to various countries on the continent, her military family’s moves offered unique insights.

She reached a turning point when she settled in Berlin, Germany and enrolled in a Business and Economic College. There, her passion for Real Estate flourished under a caring mentor. Armed with her degree, she embarked on an unforgettable backpacking adventure that led her to Australia, a country that stole her heart and became what she describes as her forever home.

While experiencing visa challenges, she briefly found herself in Singapore grappling with health issues. Amid her travels, a cherished invitation to be a maid of honor at a German friend’s wedding brought joy, but it was marred by an unexpected stomach virus.

Webster’s spirit remained unyielding. Despite the hurdles she experiences, she was offered an unforeseen opportunity—an administrative support position at the 691 COS. Webster described the news of the opportunity as a gateway to the next exciting chapter in her journey.

“Laura is a significant impact player for our Hellhounds, “ said 691st Cyberspace Operations Squadron Commander Lt. Col. Andre Wolf. “She is an absolute professional that does not back down from any challenge. We are lucky to have her on the team.”

The 688th Cyberspace Wing is America’s first cyber wing and is highly trained to execute its mission to securely connect the Air Force to Fly, Fight, and Win! The 691 COS’ role within the wing is to serve the U.S. Air Force’s premier Storage and Virtualization Center of Excellence.

EINDHOVEN AIR BASE, Netherlands – Nearly 80 years after World War II, onlookers gathered at Eindhoven Air Base on September 16, 2023, to watch a memorial flight that captured the spirit of valor and sacrifice that defined one of the war’s boldest airborne operations, Operation Market Garden.

Operation Market Garden, commencing on September 17, 1944 and concluding on September 25, was a combined airborne and ground offensive involving British, American, and Polish troops. The operation sought to seize a series of key bridges in the Netherlands and open a liberation route for a rapid advance into northern Germany.

“Operation Market Garden served as proof of concept for coordinated, collaborative airborne movements, demonstrating that the concept of dropping paratroopers and towing gliders was not only a D-Day phenomenon,” said Shannon Murphy, 86th Airlift Wing historian. “The troop carrier units that transported the airborne units and towed gliders gave the operation a fighting chance, putting allied forces in place.”

The Dutch air force holds annual events in remembrance of the operation and the allied troops who risked their lives, including a flyover and other local festivities.

This year’s memorial flight consisted of nine aircraft; two Dutch C-130 Hercules aircraft, one Polish Airbus CASA C-295 Persuader aircraft, one Romanian CASA 295 aircraft, one Italian C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, two U.S. Air Force C130J Super Hercules aircraft, one German Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft and one Greek C130 Hercules aircraft.

“Being involved in the memorial drops has been great. The Dutch air force has done an exceptional job integrating with our NATO partners,” said Captain Samuel Sloan, 37th Airlift Squadron C-130J Super Hercules aircraft pilot. “It’s an honor to participate in memorializing such a historical event.”

Today, Operation Market Garden is remembered as a symbol of valor and determination. The memorial events will continue to serve as a tribute to the soldiers who fought bravely, highlighting the importance of remembering and learning from this pivotal chapter in World War II.

CARTAGENA, Colombia (9/5/23) – Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson joined regional defense leaders at U.S. Southern Command’s South American Defense Conference 2023 recently, highlighting the role of the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program in security cooperation.

The 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau’s stop here was part of a larger itinerary in Central and South America to nurture National Guard relationships, deepen understanding of challenges and seek new opportunities in the region.

The Republic of Colombia has partnered with the South Carolina National Guard for 11 years, and Columbia hosted SOUTHCOM’s annual conference of defense leaders Aug. 23-24.

“We deeply appreciate the partnership of the Military Forces of Colombia with South Carolina,” Hokanson said, “and their professionalism and willingness to work together. We learn together, and each of us gets better as a result.”

Hokanson emphasized the importance of collaboration between U.S. and South American armed forces.

“We have shared interests and concerns,” he said. “We all really live very close to each other. What impacts any one of us, impacts all of us.”

SOUTHDEC 23 – the SOUTHCOM conference – addressed two key issues: Cyber security and climate/environmental security.

“Climate change and environmental degradation remain ‘threat multipliers’ and pose a significant risk to our security,” Army Gen. Laura Richardson, SOUTHCOM commander, told regional defense leaders from 10 South American countries and observers from Canada and four European countries.

“The fallout of COVID-19 continues to impact our economies,” Richardson said. “The malign activities of transnational criminal organizations, Iran, and our strategic competitors – China and Russia – remain.

“And the dire situation in Venezuela casts a long shadow over the region. The fact is these transboundary threats demand our attention as they place an undue burden on our citizens.”

Army Maj. Gen Van McCarty, adjutant general, South Carolina National Guard, was one of the National Guard leaders at SOUTHDEC 23 representing the states that have SPP security cooperation relationships with the 12 South American nations.

“We believe we’re learning as much as we’re hopefully teaching in this relationship,” McCarty said. “My message would be to take every opportunity we have together to recognize the challenges we have, to recognize the capacity, the capabilities, we have to work on common solutions, and to realize we have a lot more in common than we have in difference: We have many of the same issues, same concerns and the same priorities.”

The South Carolina National Guard is executing more than 30 engagements with Colombia this year, with a similar number planned for next year.

Most recently, South Carolina Army and Air Guardsmen joined a humanitarian assistance exercise, treating more than 4,400 patients through medical events, evaluations, surgeries and dental care in Cartagena and surrounding areas.

“It’s a great opportunity for our Soldiers and Airmen who have medical skills to come down and put those to practical application,” McCarty said, noting that many of the Guardsmen bring civilian-acquired medical skills to their military profession.

South Carolina also joins large-scale military exercises in Colombia.

“The light infantry here in Colombia is some of the best in the world, and Colombia’s special forces are also very good,” Hokanson said. “So the exercises are very beneficial.”

U.S. and regional forces routinely train together in annual exercises; the partners collaborate to detect, disrupt and dismantle transnational criminal organizations and traffickers; and SOUTHCOM supports regional humanitarian assistance missions.

SOUTHCOM is one of the nation’s six geographically focused unified commands. The command is responsible for U.S. military operations in the Caribbean, Central America and South America, and for security cooperation with regional defense and public security forces.

— U.S. Southern Command, Air Force Capt. Jon LaDue, and Army Sgt. 1st Class Zach Sheely contributed

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – It was a dandy day for a run.

Clear skies and crisp autumn temperatures in the low 50s at the starter’s gun set the stage for Saturday’s 27th annual Air Force Marathon as Jason Salyer fended off a feisty challenge from Connor Roche to claim his second consecutive overall crown with a time of 2 hours, 26 minutes, 49 seconds.

“I had to work a lot harder than I anticipated,” said Salyer, a civilian who works for Defense Finance and Accounting Service. “He pushed me for 21 or 22 miles and made me nervous throughout the race, but ultimately, my training paid off, my discipline paid off – and I was able to pull away at the end. But he gave me a run for my money today.”

The 33-year-old from Tipp City ran side-by-side with Roche for much of the 26.2-mile race, which starts and finishes near the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The two exchanged the lead at least half a dozen times before Salyer finally shook him around mile-22.

Local runner Katie Ruhlman won the women’s full marathon in 2:47:57, breaking the course record by over 4 minutes. Ann Alyanak crossed the finish line in 2:52:15 to win in 2019 and set the previous mark.

Elite runners say the course isn’t conducive to fast times. It features sharp turns and steep climbs early on and late and winds through both areas of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, including historic aviation sites.

The event is a Boston Marathon qualifier – this year’s Air Force Marathon attracted more than 8,500 runners from all 50 states and over 15 countries around the world.

Temperatures had crept into the mid-70s by the time the last pack of participants finished in early afternoon.

Ruhlman, 33, was making only her second appearance in the full marathon. She missed last year’s race while pregnant with her first child.

“I wasn’t sure if I’d have the miles in my legs,” said Ruhlman, a nurse practitioner who lives with her family in Centerville. “Coming into today, I just wanted to enjoy it and celebrate being back out there. Thankfully today, things came together and I was able to take the win and knock off that course record.

“I’m really happy and excited. It was a good race for me. … This is a huge celebration to be out here, be healthy and be able to run.”

Her gold medal-winning time Saturday was about 40 minutes faster than her Air Force Marathon debut a decade ago.

Meanwhile, Christina Johnston of Xenia claimed her third women’s half-marathon title, finishing in 1:22:35. She was runner-up in 2022.

“It feels pretty good – it was perfect weather today,” said Johnston, a Fairmont High School teacher who also won the event in 2014 and 2010. “You just can’t beat the setup we have here at the Air Force base. It’s a good course. There’s a hill between mile 7 and 8 coming off Kauffman Road that’s always pretty tough. … It always feels good to come back for the Air Force Marathon every year.”

Jacob Pitman, a second lieutenant who just wrapped up a graduate studies stint at WPAFB’s Air Force Institute of Technology, won the men’s half-marathon in his first outing, setting the pace at 1:08:49.

“I didn’t realize how big of an event this was,” he said. “Being out here, it’s awesome. It’s a lot better than I could’ve ever hoped. … Obviously, the course is pretty hilly, but having the guys up front with me, it was pretty good getting to feed off each other. And the environment, with all the people cheering, it was very helpful.

“Overall, I could not have asked for a better day and a better course. … It’s been a great opportunity to see how the community around here comes together.”

In August, Pitman prevailed in the Little Miami Half Marathon near Cincinnati, under much more humid conditions.

Earlier in the day, Daniel Michalski from the Air Force World Class Athlete Program outpaced 10K competitors with a time of 33:50. He then turned around and ran the half-marathon. The Xenia native also won the 5K race Friday night at Wright State University.

Darcy Whyte of Centerville took first in the 10K among the women, crossing the line in 38:15.

Salyer, who’s also a two-time half-marathon champion, plans to run the Columbus Marathon next month and is targeting the Olympic trials Feb. 3 in Orlando, Florida.

But he says the Air Force Marathon remains his “hometown race,” and the tight battle with Roche makes the 2023 race memorable.

“This one will definitely stand out,” he added. “I just love the atmosphere here. I like the display of our military dominance and I love the fireworks. I love seeing the service men and women. It’s cool being awarded this medal by them. I appreciate what they do for me, for us, for our country.

“It’s just a really supportive and energetic atmosphere. I love being part of the Air Force Marathon. … It’s fun to come back and repeat. And we couldn’t have asked for a better weather day.”

To view a full list of results, official times and more information on the event, go to www.usafmarathon.com.

From July to August 2023, U.S. Marines with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company (5th ANGLICO), III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, participated in the Korean Marine Exchange Program 23.3 (KMEP).

The ROK-U.S. Marine Corps alliance is one of the strongest in the Indo-Pacific region. During the first half of KMEP 23.3, 5th ANGLICO Marines and Republic of Korea (ROK) Marines rehearsed practical applications of close air support scenarios with digital maps of targets and familiarizing themselves with various urban and mountainous terrain. Captain Clay Smith, an Air Officer with ANGLICO, explained the aircraft check-in process while Sergeant Colton Dexter, a Joint Terminal Attack Controller with ANGLICO, analyzed a scenario. The team exchanged tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and conducted multiple drills to enhance their cohesion. Captain Eric Pak, the Air Officer with 5th ANGLICO and JTAC-evaluator, assisted ROKMC JTACS in refining their TTPs.

During the second half of the exercise, the 5th ANGLICO team relocated to Pilsung Range, Gangwan Province. U.S. Marine Corps Captain Edward Driscoll, a Fire Support Officer with 5th ANGLICO, conducted the close air support mission with U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II’s. The A-10s conducted multiple attacks with live munitions, culminating with a show of force demonstration.

This iteration of KMEP continued to progress with bilateral operations with the ROK Marine Corps. ROK Marines GySgt Jiwon Kang and GySgt Young Uk Lee returned from the previous interation of KMEP. This time around, they knocked out two controls in thirty minutes, demonstrating improved speed and skill from past exercises.

“KMEP enhances our bilateral and joint relationships. We got help from the 607th ASOG (Air Support Operations Group), the 25th Fighter Squadron, and the 7th Air Force. The ROK Marines were highly engaged from the beginning. They are very motivated and humbled professionals. We train alongside the ROK Marines and JTACs in conducting close air support, which is our bread and butter”, explained Capt. Pak.

Readiness and bilateral cooperation remain the top mission priority for the Joint Force in the Korean Theater of Operations. Leveraging shared TTPs and joint doctrine, both the ROK Marines and U.S. Marines were able to execute the mission due years of training and exchange programs.

KMEP is an annual joint and bilateral training exercise that increases interoperability and combined warfighting capabilities of the ROK and U.S. Marine Corps Forces across the Korean Peninsula.