JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Over
100 members assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing returned to Langley Air Force Base
today after a 6 month deployment to the Middle East. During their deployment,
F-22 Raptors participated in Operation INHERENT RESOLVE against the Islamic
State in Iraq and Syria.
“I can’t be more proud of our Airmen,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Jason T. Hinds,
1st FW Commander. “They did fantastic work operating and maintaining the F-22
for a prolonged period of combat operations. Well done.”
While the 1st FW’s 27th Fighter Squadron was the lead element deployed, they
were joined by personnel from the 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit as well as
Virginia Air National Guard Airmen assigned to the 192nd Fighter Wing.
“When we go to combat, it is truly a total force effort with our 192nd FW
partners,” said Hinds.
The 1st FW homecoming was not quite complete, as some F-22s remained in Europe
as part of the European Deterrence Initiative.
“The F-22 is America’s premier air dominance fighter, and our mission to Europe
provides us an opportunity to train with our allies and strengthen our
partnerships.” said Hinds.
While in the Europe, the F-22s will also forward deploy from the United Kingdom
to other NATO bases to maximize training opportunities, demonstrate our
steadfast commitment to NATO allies and deter any actions that destabilize
regional security.
“Today’s homecoming is great.” said Hinds. “But we won’t really be home until
everyone returns from Europe.”