MAG-16 assumes authority at Al Asad

Photo By Cpl. Jessica Aranda | Marine Aircraft Group 16 Marines, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., render salutes at the presentation of colors in a transfer of authority ceremony, Jan. 28. The group assumed control from its east coast counterpart, Marine Aircraft Group 29.  

AL ASAD, IRAQ

02.07.2008

Story by Cpl. Jessica Aranda 

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

By Lance Cpl. Jessica Aranda
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs

AL ASAD, Iraq - Transfer of authority ceremonies occur as new units arrive to take the place of those currently operating here.

"Our short-term goals are to hit the ground running as we assume responsibility for providing aviation support," said Sgt. Maj. Tyrone Humphrey, Marine Aircraft Group-16 sergeant major. "We will ensure that safety is considered in every situation."

The group headquarters guarantees the squadrons have all the directions, guidance and resources to complete the MNF-West mission.

"In the long term, we will provide the units we are supporting during our watch the best possible service we can," added Humphrey. "In doing so, we hope to bring each Marine that we brought here home safely."

As MAG-16 begins transitioning into the local operations, MAG-29 will return to its home station, Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C.

Despite being apart from their families, the Marines and sailors attached to the group remained focused on the mission for the entire tour.

Throughout 2007, MAG-29 squadrons logged 105,000 combat flight hours, more than 3,300 medical evacuations and 130 air strikes.

"I couldn't be more proud of the group," said Col. Bruce A. Haines, the commanding officer for MAG-29. "Thousands have made the sacrifice, and this was our opportunity to commit ourselves. This year has been extremely rewarding."

• Date Taken: 02.07.2008
• Date Posted: 02.07.2008 01:13
• Story ID: 16119
• Location: AL ASAD, IQ