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SOUTHWEST ASIA: The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing kicked into high gear to support ongoing operations in Iraq, while still providing a presence in Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.
Flying squadrons and maintenance units throughout the wing responded to the call for an increased display of airpower to back the resolve of the Iraqi government to protect its sovereignty and the security within its border.
In a two-day period, the 379th AEW supported a coalition effort that flew 102 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. The missions included support to coalition troops, infrastructure protection, reconstruction activities and operations to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
“As is the case every day, everyone in this wing responded to the call for demonstrating how the dominance of air power synchronizes with the ground forces' efforts,” said Col. Jeffrey Fraser, 379th AEW vice commander. “We employed the full range of our wing's airpower to support the effort to secure Baghdad and ports of entry throughout Iraq.”
The increased tempo is something felt by more than those working on the flightline. Any time sortie rates increase there is a snowball effect on the supply chain, said Chief Master Sgt. Mike Allen, 379th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron chief of supply.
“Our supply professionals work very closely with maintainers to ensure we get parts and keep the aircraft mission ready,” Chief Allen said. “The relationship between us and aircraft maintenance is fabulous, and that helps us keep the jets flying.”
The demands of increased flying operations were possible thanks to the wing's new hydrant fuel system, which has proven to be safer and more efficient, said Capt. John Klohr, 379th ELRS Fuels Management Flight commander.
As a major fuel hub in Southwest Asia, the flight dispenses more than 700,000 gallons of fuel every day, Captain Klohr said. The increase in flying also increases the importance of balancing receipts to ensure enough fuel is on hand.
The 379th AEW's air refueling, ISR and airlift asset capabilities will allow the coalition to provide the persistent presence requested by the Iraqi government, the colonel said.
“We are here to assist the Iraqi people in securing their country and establishing an environment where anti-Iraqi forces are unable to operate,” Colonel Fraser said.
