Airmen from Hill deploy, conduct routine security in Asia-Pacific region

by George F. Jozens
75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

1/15/2014 - HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Nearly 300 personnel from Hill's active duty 388th Fighter Wing and Air Force Reserve 419th Fighter Wing recently deployed to the Republic of Korea for several months, demonstrating continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

Air Combat Command routinely deploys aircraft to the Asia-Pacific region, providing Pacific Air Forces and the U.S. Pacific Command commanders a Theater Security Package, deepening ties with allies and relationships with the international community.

"Part of this deployment includes an exercise to test our Airmen's ability to respond on short notice," said Col. Lance Landrum, 388th FW commander. "The combat scenarios they experience are as realistic as they come."

"We train for this each and every day, and I'm confident our folks are bringing their best," Landrum added.

"Our Reserve Airmen are committed to supporting our active-duty counterparts on this deployment," said Col. Bryan Radliff, 419th FW commander. "Many of our reservists here at Hill are seasoned veterans with multiple deployments under their belts. They not only left behind families, but they also took time away from their civilian jobs to serve our nation."

The movement of the U.S. Air Force fighters into the Pacific has been ongoing since March 2004 in order to maintain a prudent deterrent against threats to regional security and stability.

Hill's two fighter wings have been deploying side by side since July 2007 when the units began flying and maintaining a shared fleet of F-16 aircraft as part of an initiative dubbed Total Force Integration. TFI seeks to enhance combat capability by capitalizing on the unique strengths of the active duty and reserve components.