Silicon Valley Air National Guardsmen Return from Overseas Deployment

by 129th Public Affairs

6/8/2015 - MOFFETT FEDERAL AIRFIELD, Calif.  -- California Air National Guardsmen from the 129th Rescue Wing returned home from a four-month deployment to the Horn of Africa early Saturday morning.

Approximately 30 Para-rescue Airmen and Combat Rescue Officers from the 131st Rescue Squadron served as the primary personnel recovery force for Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa throughout their deployment.

While deployed, the Wing's guardsmen have been supporting CJTF-HOA's multinational counterinsurgency and stabilization operations throughout the region. 

In April, the PJs were involved in the rescue of two Saudi Arabian airmen after their Air Force F-15 Eagle aircraft crashed in the Gulf of Aden.

"The return of our air guardsmen is punctuated by the rescue of two Saudi fighter pilots during their deployment," said Col. Gregory F. Jones, 129th Rescue Wing commander.  "We are proud to welcome home our warriors after a job well done."

To date, 129th RW is credited with saving the lives of more than 1,000 people.  From arid deserts and snow-covered mountain tops to urban and rural settings, 129th RW guardsmen can reach any destination by land, air or sea. Equipped with Air Force MC-130P Combat Shadow aircraft, Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawk rescue helicopters and Guardian Angel teams, the 129th RW conducts combat search and rescue, and the rescue of distressed persons aboard ships, lost or injured hikers, and medical evacuations.