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A mission was completed at the 104th Fighter Wing in Westfield, Massachusetts, on September 30, 2025. A chapter in a book closed for Col. David “Moon” Halasi-Kun, 104th Fighter Wing commander. Eighteen years of F-15C Eagles flying over western Massachusetts came to an end with the last training mission, accompanied by the 104th Wing Commander.
Hundreds gathered to witness the historic flight. Cheers, laughter, the click of camera shutters, and a few quiet tears filled the air as Col. Halasi-Kun approached the flight line for his last ride in the jet he’s flown since 1999..
Joined by three other F-15Cs, including one piloted by Lt. Col. Ashley “Wreck” Rolfe, commander of the 131st Operations, Halasi-Kun soared over Western Massachusetts, the Atlantic, and into New York airspace. They flew approximately 2 hours of basic fighter maneuver’s (BFM) also called “dog fighting” over Whiskey 105 supported by a tanker holding 60,000 pounds of fuel. Short breaks for refueling and then back at it again.
“The day is going to beautiful, it’s a good end to the Eagle,” said Rolfe
Local officials, including members of the Airport Commission, State Rep. Kelley W. Pease, R-Westfield, and Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe, joined service members, families and special guests to watch Col. Halasi-Kun step into the jet for the last time.
“The Eagles have been a part of this base for a long time, part of who I am since 1999. Today we are going to send her off in style. Then we are going to come home and put her to bed,” Halasi-Kun said. “Thank you Barnestormers!”
While the formation flew, those on the ground reminisced about Col. Halasi-Kun and the F-15C. Some recalled the transition from the A-10 Thunderbolt to the Eagle back in 2007.
SMSgt. Adam Casineau, 104th Fighter Wing Air Ground Equipment Supervisor, was a crew chief on the A-10 before transitioning as a crew chief with the F-15C.
“The excitement today is just like it was in 2007,” he said. “But there’s sadness too—friends leaving, though new jets are coming.”
Mayor McCabe cleared his schedule to attend the full event.
“This is a bittersweet day. I am going to miss Colonel Moon the most. Him, his wife and children,” said Westfield City Mayor. “I wouldn’t miss this day.”
While patiently waiting for the team to land, the crowd was brought out to the flightline. First sight was the formation of four F-15C aircraft flying overhead. They flew together until one pulled away, signaling the “last mission”.
Ken Middleton, a local photographer, was present. He spent many years documenting the history of the Eagles with the 104th Fighter Wing. Middleton started covering flights in 2007 as the A-10 operations were settling down. He has covered over 45 Final “Fini” Flights for the pilots assigned to the wing including Halasi-Kun’s.
“Thank you for your service, support and friendship over the years. Thank you for allowing me to capture the Barnestormer history and welcoming my family and I,” said Middleton
The jets returned with thunderous passes and steep climbs. Halasi-Kun, pulling up to 8 Gs, gave one last show before touching down. He was welcomed by a traditional water cannon salute, two fire engines spraying arcs of water over the jet, a sight not seen since the A-10’s farewell.
Tradition on the last flight is to soak the pilot with champagne and water. But before climbing down from the cockpit, Halasi-Kun stood tall, scanning the crowd.
“I’m not crying, you’re crying!” he shouted with a smile.
Col. David “Moon” Halasi-Kun isn’t just a commander or a pilot—he’s a friend and mentor to many. After 15 years at Barnes and over 3,200 flight hours in the F-15C Eagle, his legacy runs deep through the 104th Fighter Wing. It was clear from the crowd that he would be missed.
With tears in his eyes and a completely champagne soaked uniform, Halasi-Kun spoke to his friends and family.
“I am going to miss being a part of this team. I’m going to miss coming here every day and working with the most dedicated people I have ever met in my entire life. I couldn’t ask for better people, “said Halasi-Kun
| Date Taken: | 10.01.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 10.06.2025 08:42 |
| Story ID: | 549846 |
| Location: | MASSACHUSETTS, US |
| Web Views: | 24 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, A Chapter Closed, 104th Fighter Wing Commander Takes Final Flight, by Melanie Casineau, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
