The annual Royal International Air Tattoo is the world’s largest international airshow, held July 19-21, 2024, at RAF Fairford, England with support of the 501st Combat Support Wing. This year RIAT commemorated the 75th anniversary of NATO and the 50th anniversary of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. U.S. military participation in RIAT highlights the value of U.S. force presence in Europe, demonstrates U.S. commitment to Europe and reinforces NATO strength and unity. (U.S. Air Force video by Tech. Sgt. Jessica Avallone)
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Joseph J. Raisner, 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron incoming commander gives a speech during a change of command ceremony at RAF Fairford, England July 26, 2024. The ceremony formally recognizes the transfer of the unit's responsibilities from one commander to another. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Adam Enbal)
Operation ALLIES REFUGE in Kabul, Afghanistan, is the largest Noncombatant Evacuation in U.S. Air Force history. Tech. Sgt. Kenneth W. Bish, 422nd Security Forces Squadron Plans and Programs noncommissioned officer in charge, was one of many to assist the successful evacuation of 122 thousand Afghanistan nationals. In recognition of his efforts, he recently received an Air Medal.
“At the time, my leadership walked into my office and said they needed fly-away security to go to Kabul to help pull refugees out of Afghanistan,” recalled Bish. “I raised my hand and got on a plane that same day.”
That one action would lead Bish to witnessing the end of a 20-year conflict as well as evacuating 1,300 refugees and 90,000 pounds of...
A groundbreaking ceremony for the European Infrastructure Consolidation (EIC) project’s new Joint Intelligence Analysis Complex (JIAC) building was held at RAF Molesworth, England, April 12.
The EIC project is set to revolutionize intelligence analysis operations in Europe. This initiative focuses on consolidating approximately 1,700 personnel into a modern facility, replacing outdated infrastructure and improving operational efficiency.
