B-2 deployment to Guam: Teamwork, Sorties, Success

by Senior Airman Joseph A. Pagán Jr.
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

9/11/2015 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- For nearly 30 days, Airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, showcased the capabilities and mission effectiveness of the B-2 Spirit while deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.

From Aug. 7 to Aug. 28, approximately 225 Airmen from the 509th Bomb Wing exercised their ability to conduct B-2 flight operations in an environment outside of the United States. The 13th BS completed more than 25 sorties and compiled approximately 300 flying hours, including integration with home station aircraft to support exercise operations during Red Flag-Alaska.

"Launching three B-2s from Andersen to participate in Red Flag-Alaska, while at the same time two B-2s launched from Whiteman AFB to do the same was the flying highlight of our deployment," said Lt. Col. Robert Makros, 13th Bomb Squadron commander. "This sortie was a 32-hour marathon that presented flyers with challenges similar to those they will experience during combat."

All five B-2s executed their mission and hit their target sets with precision and flawless timing, Makros continued.

Red Flag-Alaska is a Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercise for U.S. Forces, providing large employment training in a simulated combat environment.

"The success of Red Flag and numerous other missions during the deployment were not because of any one individual," Makros said. "It was a direct result of our team busting their tails every single day. Every person on this trip played a vital role in our success."

This dedication was on display each day, resulting in a visit from the 36th Wing commander, Brig. Gen. Andrew Toth, who discussed the importance of Andersen's location.

"Bringing these assets (B-2s) to Andersen demonstrates our partnership and commitment in preserving peace and stability in the Pacific," Toth said.  "Should any conflicts arise, our strategic forward presence enables us to rapidly respond to any crises."

Markos said the Airmen who support, safeguard, generate and fly the B-2 ensure the continued operation of the most feared and revered bomber in the world.

"This team and the power projection they provide are why I sleep very well at night and why certain groups in far off places do not," Markos said.