The 79th Fighter Squadron deployed members to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel during the month of October.
Operation Freedom’s Sentinel aims to support the people and government of Afghanistan by continuing to assist, train and advise the Afghan government as well as maintaining counter-insurgency operations.
“This is what we prepare for every day,” said Col. Daniel Lasica, 20th Fighter Wing commander. “In the past, the 20th Fighter Wing has repeatedly proved its combat readiness. I have no doubts in the capabilities of Team Shaw Airmen to complete the mission and exceed all expectations while doing so.”
The 79th FS, also known as the “Tigers,” can be traced back to February 1918, when it was first known as the 79th Aero Squadron. Since then, the squadron has played a role in several missions to include operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Desert Fox.
Since 1994, the 79th FS has flown F-16CM Fighting Falcons, compact, multi-role fighter aircraft that engage in both air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attacks.
Although the aircraft display a range of capabilities, the Falcon wouldn’t have its wings without a range of several highly skilled and versatile Airmen working as a team to track, maintain and operate the F-16s.
“Deploying as a unit is nice because you know everybody there and you build camaraderie,” said Maj. Michael Watts, 20th Operations Group standards and evaluations chief.
During a deployment, a unit is closed off from outside influences which allows them to focus on working together and flying together, toward a common goal and mission, Watts continued.
The 79th FS is deployed as a representative of the 20th Fighter Wing, whose mission is to provide combat-ready airpower and Airmen to meet any challenge, anytime, anywhere.