More than 50 Airmen from the 158th Fighter Wing are deploying this fall to support ongoing missions in the United States Central Command and United States Africa Command theaters.
“What you’re about to embark on may be new to some and old hat to others but every time we go it’s significant. It’s not easy, but it is important,” said Col. Daniel Finnegan, 158th Fighter Wing Commander, during the deployment ceremony earlier this year. “Your expertise at your job and your willingness to take that expertise where it’s needed shapes the world stage,” said Finnegan.
October 26 is National Day of the Deployed, a day dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices of service members and the families who support them.
"While our Airmen voluntarily serve overseas, it is the unwavering strength of their families back home that sustains them," said Brig. Gen. Henry Harder, Jr., Vermont Deputy Adjutant General. "The sacrifices made by spouses, children, and loved ones often go unseen, but their courage and support are the bedrock upon which our military stands."
These deployments are part of a regularly scheduled cycle known as a Reserve Component Period.
“Our first Airmen headed out last month and our last deployers are scheduled to leave by the middle of November," said Capt. Joseph Hartmann, 158th Fighter Wing Installation Deployment Officer.
The Airmen, from many specialties, will deploy for approximately 6 months supporting units at their overseas location in a variety of missions.
“We have members from all over base deploying, including the Fire Department, Security Forces, Petroleum Oil and Lubricant Specialists, and other technical, administrative and support areas,” said Hartmann.
The Airmen are scheduled to return home in small groups upon completion of their deployment starting in the spring of 2025.
“Thank you for what you’re about to do for your nation. You’re going to be carrying on the long, proud tradition of the Vermont Air National Guard no matter where you’re going,” Harder said during the deployment ceremony. “It’s a critical time in our country’s national security history for you to be out doing the job you’re doing supporting and defending the nation.”