SOUTHWEST ASIA – After an extensive and rigorous training period leading up to their current deployment, the 185th Theater Aviation Brigade has taken the reigns in assuming command of all aviation assets within the U.S. Army Central’s area of responsibility.
The Mississippi Army National Guard unit, with subordinate commands comprised of active Army and National Guard elements from across the U.S., was mobilized to support Operation Inherent Resolve in Southwest Asia.
While deployed, the brigade will be responsible for a wide range of aviation operations and support missions including: conducting training missions with partner countries, supporting ongoing and future operations throughout the USARCENT area of operations, and facilitating and participating in training with other U.S. services.
“It’s a really unique and challenging mission but I have confidence that the members of this brigade are prepared to perform with both perseverance and distinction,” said Col. Ronald Beckham, the 185th TAB commander.
As USARCENT’s combat aviation brigade, the unit will be responsible for conducting Theater Security Cooperation as well as providing aviation support to Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq.
“Balancing the operational requirements from the Theater Security Cooperation perspective with those presented by Operation Inherent Resolve is a top priority,” said Beckham. “We bring some of the most seasoned and well-trained aviators and support personnel that you’ll find anywhere.”
The brigade is a unique combination of active Army and National Guard units from across the U.S.
“Everyone is jelling well and there really is a one team attitude throughout the organization,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Willie Ross, the 185th TAB command sergeant major.
The unit will command and control the 1st Battalion, 137th Aviation Regiment from the Ohio Army National Guard, the 351st Aviation Support Battalion from the South Carolina National Guard, and the 1-501st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, an active Army unit based out of Fort Bliss, Texas. Like the brigade, each battalion has elements from a number of different states.
“Bringing five states together, including the active component, and acting as one is a challenge,” said Lt. Col. Pat Durbin, the 1-137th AHB commander. “We have the ability to integrate everybody and get them on the same page to move forward to accomplish the mission. I will be extremely pleased with that. There is no doubt in my mind that we will do that,” Durbin said.
| Date Taken: |
04.20.2015 |
| Date Posted: |
04.28.2015 07:20 |
| Story ID: |
161499 |
| Location: |
(UNDISCLOSED LOCATION) |
| Hometown: |
JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI, US |
| Web Views: |
595 |
| Downloads: |
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