LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
While President Barack Obama relaxed with family recently, F-15 pilots from the 71st Fighter Squadron vigilantly patrolled the skies overhead.
The patrols were part of Operation Noble Eagle, a homeland security initiative instituted after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in order to defend North American skies, high-value personnel and assets on the ground.
The team encountered three civilian aircraft that wandered into the designated no-fly zones, but managed to successfully escort the planes out of the controlled airspace, said Capt. Kevin Welch, 71st FS F-15 pilot.
"The pilots were all cooperative and communicative," said Captain Fritts. "Their cooperation made what could easily have been a bad situation easier to handle, and contributed to their safety as well as ours."
All pilots participating in ONE must use practice simulators and complete written examinations on rules of engagement. The incidents provided us an opportunity to apply our intensive training, said Capt. Michael Fritts, 71st FS F-15 pilot.
"It's not often we find ourselves in this situation, so when it happens, all of our training and instincts come into play," Captain Fritts said. "It's all business up there."
Combat Air Patrols, the security missions flown during ONE, are flown to assess threats, establish deterrence measure and investigate flights of interest. The missions also provide valuable extra training for pilots.
"Our number one priority is maintaining a safe environment for all aircraft and operators involved," said Captain Welch, who intercepted one of the planes. "We need to protect ourselves, the other pilots and our interests on the ground: that happened in all cases here."
Alert fighters, random CAPs and improved radar coverage and connectivity are essential to providing viable air defense for North America. Aircraft remain deployed and prepared to provide air defense over the continental United States, Canada and Alaska.
Airmen from the 71st FS and 71st Aircraft Maintenance Unit devoted a wealth of extra effort and resources in support of ONE, and find great pride contributing to homeland security.
"It's an awesome feeling knowing that we're able to keep Americans safe right here at home," said Captain Fritts. "It's an honor to be up there."