Air Force extends Pennsylvania Guard flight ops

  • Published
WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  The Air Force and the National Guard Bureau have directed the 111th Fighter Wing to extend their mission until 2010 at Naval Station Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove, Pa. The 111th Fighter Wing is an Air National Guard unit that operates the A/OA-10 Thunderbolt II. 

In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure Committee directed a comprehensive schedule to cease flying operations at Willow Grove by the end of 2011. The 111th aircraft were originally scheduled to begin moving to other units in 2009. This one-year extension will allow the Pennsylvania ANG to continue to participate in America’s war on terrorism as well as being available to respond to homeland defense and security missions. 

Lt. Gen. Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said he is encouraged by this change and will continue to work to ensure the Guard remains an important partner in our nation’s defense. 

“The 111th Fighter Wing has been a valuable partner in the defense of our nation,” Blum said. “We are encouraged by the Air Force’s commitment to the Air National Guard and look forward to working with them as we explore new missions for the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.” 

The Naval Air Station will continue to support air operations through 2010. An enclave, directed by BRAC, will support the remaining non-flying mission of the 111th, the 270th Engineering Installation Support Squadron and Army units incorporated into an Armed Forces Reserve Center planned for the same location. 

The 111th Fighter Wing recently received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, with valor, for participation in operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.