Though it has been busy providing hurricane support over the past 14 months, the 1st Air Force is also busy doing its main job -- protecting America’s skies.

The Airmen that work in the combined air operations center continue to maintain the nation’s “steady and robust air defense,” said Col. Kevin Burman, commander of the combined air operations center here.

“With recent hurricane operations, we’ve stepped up to fully integrate both missions without compromise,” he said. “We’re ready to provide the people of Florida any assistance they require. Americans expect -- and will receive -- nothing less.”

1st AF is charged with the air sovereignty and air defense of the continental United States, providing and directing airspace surveillance and control.

The operations center has active duty Air Force, Air National Guard and Canadian forces. They maintain an around-the-clock watch.
“The safety and security of North American airspace remains the mission focus for thesse men and women -- Canadian and American alike,” said Canadian Brig. Gen. Marcel Duval, deputy commander of the Continental United States North American Aerospace Defense Command Region.

“We continue to streamline operations to remain at the forefront of homeland air defense and civil support,” the general said.

More than 80 percent of fighter aircrews flying Operation Noble Eagle air defense missions are guardsmen. About 75 percent of tanker and C-130 Hercules airlift crews are from the Guard and reserves.