Airmen watch over calm November in Iraq
Posted 12/1/2009
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by Capt. Frank Hartnett
U.S. Air Forces Central Command
12/1/2009 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Iraqi and coalition efforts had combined to sustain the stability in Iraq set new records in November with zero airstrikes, zero weapons releases and zero shows of force.
The last time aircrews had a clean streak was in June; however, June also had 16 reports of troops in contact, but in November there were only five.
"Our Airmen are dedicated to the mission," said Brig. Gen. Craig Franklin, the 332nd Expeditionary Wing commander. "I see them every day working on the flightline or performing duties around Joint Base Balad and at locations across Iraq. Their dedication, along with our Iraqi partners, is building security and stability in this country and is making a difference."
Supporting this effort was more than 600 close-air-support sorties offering armed overwatch for Iraqi and coalition ground units. In addition, more than 700 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance sorties provided the real-time coverage to keep units informed and monitor suspicious activity.
"The conditions in Iraq will continue to develop," said Col. Mark Waite, the combat operations director. "I'm pleased to see a month without an airstrike, but more importantly, Airmen are continuing to support the responsible draw down and foster stability for Iraq." |
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