455th AEW rotates more than 700 Airmen

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AFGHANISTAN

02.04.2005

Courtesy Story

DVIDS Hub       

By Air Force Capt. Catie Hague

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan ---- Air Expeditionary Force rotations 1 and 2 'turns on final," as approximately 700 Airmen assigned to AEF rotations 3 and 4 are slated to hit the ground on Bagram Airfield within the next three weeks.

This new team of Airmen is tasked with carrying on the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing's mission for 120 days -- January through May.

"Our Airmen are coming from all over," said Air Force Col. Derrick Hoxie, 455th AEW deputy commander. "They've got various specialties, which they must now transfer to the battle rhythm of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"The goal for AEF 3/4 is a successful deployment -- both personal and operational," he said. "As for the mission, the AEW will continue to provide aerial support and protection for the Coalition effort on the ground, specifically in support of the upcoming regional and provincial elections in the spring."

The 455th Expeditionary Operations Group, commanded by Air Force Col. Warren Henderson, will take on the security role through its implementation of close air support.

"We have 254 people coming in with the A-10s," said Henderson. "In order to ensure there's continuing close air support available throughout the AEF swap out, the current operations team will remain in place until the new aviation package has arrived."

The operations group, made up of flyers and maintainers, is deploying as a unit from Pope Air Force Base, N.C.

"Under the AEW, we'll be divided into two groups -- operations and maintenance -- where we'll work closely to accomplish the day-to-day flying mission," he said. "Our A-10s will provide close air support to the Army and other government agencies involved with inspections, convoys, [distinguished visitor] escorts, border crossings and policing efforts."

While the Number 1 job of the 455th is to provide "first-rate, on-time support" to the troops on the ground, the focus of AEF 3 and 4 at Bagram will be to leave the Army-run airfield in better condition than it is today.

"We need to get out of the temporary mindset and focus on sustainment," said Air Force Col. Rita Meyer, 455th Expeditionary Mission Support Group commander.

From a support standpoint, Meyer has four main goals for the next 120 days -- keep people and resources mission-focused, implement baseline Air Force quality of life standards, uphold Air Force standards and culture, and plan for future AEF rotations.

"We've got a number of projects in the works," added Meyer. "Like the continuation of airfield improvements, the streamlining of air cargo ops, and the rebuilding of shower and latrine facilities.

Limited numbers of living huts are another issue being worked. And there will be some personnel and work-center moves in order to round out the site plan."

Bottom line -- be prepared for change, said Hoxie. And to the troops he said, "Pull out your 'tools" â?¦ you're gonna use "em."

• Date Taken: 02.04.2005
• Date Posted: 02.04.2005 14:43
• Story ID: 1110
• Location: BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AF