391st Fighter Squadron Deploys

by Senior Airman Caitlin Guinazu
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

6/5/2014 - MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Bags packed, farewells made and the Airmen have prepared themselves to fly thousands of miles for their deployment.

Approximately ten F-15E Strike Eagles and hundreds of Airmen from the 366th Fighter Wing deployed to the Pacific Air Forces, demonstrating continued U.S. commitment to stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

"During this deployment, we can be called on at any moment to be re-tasked to go somewhere else within that theater," said Lt. Col. Richard Dickens, 391st Fighter Squadron commander. "Our forces have been made available to respond at any given time."

Air Combat Command continues to routinely deploy fighter aircraft to the region, providing Pacific Air Forces and the U.S. Pacific Command with rotational forces as well as deepening ties with our allies and our relationship with the international community.

"The deployment for us sends the signal that we are heavily postured in the region and we are committed to our partners," said Dickens. "By continuing our presence there, we'd be able to respond better to any crises that may develop. "

Since March 2014, U.S. fighter squadrons have routinely integrated movements into the U.S. Pacific Command, in order to maintain a prudent deterrent against threats to regional security and stability.

"We are excited for the opportunity to represent our base and show what Gunfighter airpower can do," said Senior Airman Jessica Reyes, 366th Operations Support Squadron weather forecaster. "We will miss our family and friends but this is our job and what we train for each and every day. We are excited to use our unique capabilities in a joint-force environment."

Military members aren't the only ones missing family and friends during deployments.

"This is my husband's six or seventh deployment, but it's unlike any he's done before," said Michelle Cates, wife of Maj. Joshua Cates. "I'll of course miss him, but this is important to him and to the mission."

A little less than a year ago the Fighter Squadron was faced with challenges like sequestration and not having qualifications or credentials. Starting from scratch they trained hard in order to not only meet the standard, but to exceed it.

"I'm excited to get out there and show not only what the 391st Bold Tigers can do, but what the Wing as a whole is capable of," said Dickens. "Showcasing not only the training that we've been able to put together but also the incredible teamwork of the Wing."