The 354th Fighter Wing celebrated the arrival of its final F-35A Lightning II aircraft and the subsequent completion of its fleet with a ceremony May 13.
RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 officially concluded May 13 following a successful two-week training blitz.
During RED FLAG-Alaska, there is a significant increase in flightline operations where aircraft refueling vehicles are in constant demand and fire trucks are always on standby in case of an emergency. The Airmen from the 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron Vehicle Management are responsible for
As RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 approaches its halfway mark, the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex continues to be the center of all the action.
The first aircraft operating in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 took to the skies from the Eielson flightline early this morning.
U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence Evert, the 354th Operations Group commander (left), and Lt. Col. Albert Roper, the 18th Aggressor Squadron commander, pose for a photo during an 18th AGRS change of command ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 22, 2022. The 18th Blue Fox Aggressors support
Suicide remains the leading cause of death in the Air Force. In 70 percent of total force suicides, personally-owned firearms were the most often used means. To curb this trend, the Department of the Air Force initiated a Time-Based Prevention approach to suicide prevention.
It was an historic day for Eielson as the 354th Fighter Wing accepted delivery of its final F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft April 15.
The 354th Fighter Wing’s woman-led intelligence team is always on hand to provide decision-level information and mission planning support for the wing’s two fighter squadrons in order to present fifth-generation operations across the U.S. Pacific Air Forces.
Three F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing fly over Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 29, 2022. With the continued arrival of the F-35As at Eielson, Alaska is on track to become the most concentrated state for combat-coded, fifth-generation fighter aircraft. (U.S. Air Force
With over 28 years in service, Chief Master Sgt. Mary Belt, the 354th Mission Support Group senior enlisted leader, has established herself as one of the most dedicated and beloved leaders serving today.
U.S. Pacific Air Forces’ Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex recently received the first of several advanced emitters designed to replicate enemy surface-to-air missile threats.
Members of the 354th Fighter Wing participated in a capabilities demonstration during a routine readiness exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 25, 2022.
The 2022 Air Force Assistance Fund campaign to raise funds for charities that will support Airmen and families in need begins March 21 and runs through April 29, 2022, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
U.S. Pacific Air Forces Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. James Jacobson visited Eielson Air Force Base March 9-11, 2022.
A select few individuals are chosen every year from the enlisted Air Force to join the Officer Corps. Tech. Sgt. Dorothy Knox, 354th Fighter Wing Airman Leadership School instructor, is one of the select few to be promoted from E-7 to O-2.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Aleksandr Zenski, a 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle maintenance journeyman (left), and Airman 1st Class Ian Sears, a 356th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, pose for a photo during a ‘Crew Chief for a Day’ immersion on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March
Eielson’s Iceman Spark team is slated to present their innovative solution to logistics and inventory management at Headquarters Air Force’s Tesseract Aether Sprint competition in Salt Lake City, Utah, March 14-19.
If you frequent the maintenance side of the base, chances are you’ve probably seen not one, but two Staff Sgt. Bussards. Both working around munitions, Jacob and Joshua Bussard are identical twins who’ve been on the receiving end of countless confused stares and misdirected work emails.
National Football League’s (NFL) Philadelphia Eagles mascot ‘Swoop’ poses for a photo during Pro Blitz Alaska on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 11, 2022. The Armed Forces Entertainment Pro Blitz Tour brought NFL players, cheerleaders and mascots to several military bases to meet with troops
Large amounts of accumulated snow and uncharacteristic rainfall in the past few weeks have caused moose in the local area to exhibit unusually aggressive behavior toward people and pets, warns the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.ADF&G says moose are stressed from dealing with inclement weather
Alaska’s vast beauty and unmatched hunting opportunities are huge draws for thousands of tourists each year. Most military members stationed here take advantage of their proximity to pristine national parks and myriad forests and hills by camping, hunting, or hiking in the wilderness of the Last
While it’s not uncommon to be stationed at the same base as your sibling, it’s definitely a rarity for two brothers to play on the same local hockey team while representing the Air Force and Eielson. The Taylor brothers are among a select few in the service who are fortunate enough to have this
National School Counseling Week 2022, themed “School Counseling: Better Together” and sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), will be celebrated Feb. 7–11, 2022.
A 7-person team of Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Airmen assigned to the 1st Air Support Operations Group conducted command and control (C2) operations near remote Utqiagvik, Alaska, and Point Barrow, Alaska, on the coast of the Arctic Ocean in support of Exercise Polar Quake Jan. 10-14.
The 354th Fighter Wing accepted delivery of its 49th F-35A Lightning II aircraft at Eielson, Jan. 25, 2022.
The Pacific Air Forces command team along with their spouses visited Eielson to gain insight on present challenges and discuss future plans with personnel assigned here, Jan. 4-5.
On Dec. 26, 2021, Interior Alaska was hit by the third largest rainfall on record and a winter anomaly. As soon as the temperature dipped back into the negatives, at least 2 inches of ice enveloped the base’s runway and heavily impeded flying operations. The base’s snow removal machines and
Newly appointed Air Advisors, Crisis Negotiators and Special Reaction Team (SRT) Defenders from the 354th Security Forces Squadron were recognized by their squadron leadership Jan. 7, 2022 at a ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
F-35A Lightning IIs conducted a Forward Area Refueling Point (FARP) operation with Airmen from the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron and the 1st Special Operations Squadron during Operation Iron Dagger on Dec. 7, 2021, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan.
U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs from the 354th Fighter Wing, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, arrived at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, December 3, to execute Operation Iron Dagger.
Operation Iron Dagger provided the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing opportunities for joint training which enhances U.S. Armed Forces interoperability and prepares units for future joint-force operations.
The Air Force is slated to receive the first shipment of the Omni Gen. 3 Skydrate, an improved in-flight bladder relief device, early next month. The Air Force recognized that current devices were not optimized for long-duration sorties, and as a result, aircrew were routinely dehydrating themselves
U.S. Air Force Arctic Survival Training students practice vectoring an aircraft during a recovery exercise on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 18, 2021. The purpose of the exercise was to train students and rescue personnel on hoist recovery procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class
U.S. Air Force Staff. Sgt. Ryan Cole, a 354th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron bioenvironmental engineering technician, receives the John L. Levitow Award during the Airman Leadership School (ALS) Class 22-1 graduation ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 5, 2021. ALS is an entry
U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence Evert, the 354th Operations Group commander (left), passes the 356th Fighter Squadron (FS) guidon to Lt. Col. Ryan Worrell, the 356th FS commander, during a change of command ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 5, 2021. As the 356th FS commander, Worrell is
The Department of the Air Force has selected Eielson Air Force Base (AFB) to pilot its first micro-reactor. The next-generation energy capability will provide the installation with a clean, reliable, and resilient energy supply technology for critical national security infrastructure.
With the inception of the F-35 mission at Eielson Air Force Base, one might be inclined to overlook the longstanding F-16 Aggressor mission that has been a mainstay of Eielson for many years. There’s one man who is passionate about ensuring people have an acute appreciation for the “Red Air” mission
From left to right, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Christopher Brown, the 354th Civil Engineering Squadron deputy fire chief, Col. David Berkland, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, and Sparky the fire dog pose for a group photo during the fire prevention week proclamation signing on Eielson Air Force
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 354th Munitions Squadron unload a shipping container during a munitions barge at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 18, 2021. The munitions barge is a semi-annual receipt of munitions shipped from depots throughout the continental United States. (U.S. Air Force photo
A U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pavehawk helicopter flies over the Yukon Training Area during a Capabilities-Based Assessment (CBA) Sept. 14, 2021. The CBA is a Northern Edge follow-on phase III Agile Combat Employment exercise aimed at improving PACAF’s medical support capabilities throughout the Pacific
Never in a million years did Airman 1st Class Helbees Tawadrous think she would ever leave Egypt and end up thousands of miles away from home serving in the U.S. Air Force.
U.S. Air Force ceremonial guardsmen assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing form up during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, , Sept. 11, 2021. 2021 marked the 20th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Northern Virginia.
The 354th Fighter Wing held a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the grand opening of the installation's new Airman Resilience Center Sept. 9.
The Royal Australian Air Force and U.S. Air Force joined forces to participate in RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3 at Eielson Air Force Base Aug. 12-27, 2021. This iteration of the exercise focused on the interoperability of allied fifth-generation assets, such as the F-35A Lightning II, as well as cyber and
In May 2015, Angela Martinez left her home and her family in South Korea and headed to the U.S. for good, or so she thought. At the time she wasn’t sure what the future held but had no idea she would be back in the country as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force.
When most people think of interior Alaska, they think of uninhabitable terrain, icy snow storms, northern lights, and maybe even that one video from Facebook of a gigantic moose walking down the median of a highway.
RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3 is a realistic combat training exercise that provides air to air and air to ground combat training and is essential to the success of air and space operations. With over 100 aircraft flying per day, the 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s fuels flight, also known as petroleum,
U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, fly in formation during RED FLAG-Alaska (RF-A) 21-3, near Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 23, 2021. RF-A is the world's premier tactical joint and coalition air combat employment exercise, designed to
As RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3 rages across Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, far above the roar and scramble of the base’s flight line is a team of air traffic controllers bringing order to the exercise’s fervent operations.
As the philosopher, The Notorious B.I.G., wrote, “Mo’ money, mo’ problems.”But what if instead of money, it was a flightline full of fifth-generation fighter aircraft from the U.S. Air Force? Enter the Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, safety office.
The beginning of RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3 brings Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft flying overhead and alongside U.S. Armed Forces assets for combat readiness training.
A 2021 Arctic Lightning Airshow attendee captures The U.S. Navy Air Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, on his personnel device on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 1, 2021. The 2021 Arctic Lightning Airshow consisted of acts such as: The F-35A Demonstration Team, The PACAF F-16
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Bruce “Orville” Wright, Air Force Association president, attended the Arctic Lightning Airshow at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 31, 2021.
The 354th Security Forces Squadron and its Airmen were selected to be beta testers for a new Security Forces Qualification Course. Eielson Air Force Base is one of 15 installations participating in this trial.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Cory Helms, the 354th Munitions Squadron commander, renders the first squadron salute during an assumption of command ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 26, 2021. The squadron stores, inspects, maintains and accounts for the 354th Fighter Wing’s stockpile
U.S. Air Force Col. Stuart Williamson, the 354th Mission Support Group commander (left), and Maj. Amanda Henry, 354th Force Support Squadron (FSS) commander, pose for a photo during a change of command ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 22, 2021. The 354th FSS is a diverse squadron of
An Agile Combat Employment (ACE) exercise took place on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 12-15, 2021. The 354th Fighter Wing practiced ACE tactics during a week-long surge in F-35A Lightning II operations. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)
U.S. Air Force Col. Stuart Williamson, the 354th Mission Support Group commander (left), passes the 354th Communications Squadron (CS) guidon to Maj. Daniel Campbell, the 354th CS commander, during a change of command ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 9, 2021. Prior to assuming
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing perform a hot pit refueling on an F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 355th Fighter Squadron on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 7, 2021. Hot pit refueling saves time, manpower and equipment usage by refueling an active aircraft in between
An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 355th Fighter Squadron flies over Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 1, 2021. As one of the 354th Fighter Wing’s F-35A units, the 355th FS bolsters the 354th wing’s transition to a combat-coded mission, doubling U.S. Pacific Air Forces’ F-35A combat
U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 354th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) participate in a special weapons and tactics (SWAT) physical training test June 23, 2021 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Emergency Services Team instructors from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, visited the squadron to train SWAT
‘Tuco,’ the 80th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations and chief of standards and evaluation, has inevitably become a RED FLAG-Alaska veteran after having flown for both Blue and Red air in over 15 RF iterations.
While RED FLAG-Alaska is mainly focused on aircraft and ground troop combat maneuvers, the 354th Operations Support Squadron Airfield Management Flight ensures the flight line is safe and functional for exercise participants.
Blues, greys, coyote brown, and greens surround a Koku Jieitai (Japan Air Self-Defense Force) F-15J Eagle, refueling the aircraft together during a 70 degree and sunny day on Eielson Air Force Base.
The first aircraft operating in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 21-2 took to the skies from the Eielson flightline early this morning.
U.S. Air Force Col. Travis Woodworth (left), the 1st Air Support Operations Group commander, passes the 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron (ASOS) guidon to Lt. Col. Kyle Mattie, the 3rd ASOS commander, during a change of command ceremony at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, June 4, 2021. Prior to assuming
What is usually a quiet, peaceful area in the forest by a lake was transformed into a major construction site filled with Airmen using power tools when Airmen from the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron completed a contingency training project by renovating the Birch Lake Military Recreation Area last
U.S. Airmen from the 18th Aircraft Maintenance Unit prepare an AIM-120 for pick-up during a load competition on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 21, 2021. Load competitions are periodically held to prepare weapons load crews for wartime loads. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jose Miguel
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Shane Shorter, left, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) command senior enlisted leader, and Adm. John Aquilino, the USINDOPACOM commander, check an F-35A Lightning II cockpit with Air Force Col. David Berkland, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, on Eielson Air
”What kind of aircraft do you fly?” Possibly the most popular question asked to those who serve in the U.S. Air Force. A common misconception but not entirely invalid especially for Senior Airman Justin Akaka who is both an aircraft maintainer and a licensed pilot.
The 18th Aggressor Squadron is pairing up with other U.S. military branches to effectively train the Department of Defense’s assets and personnel by knowing, teaching and replicating adversary tactics during Northern Edge 2021.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Evan Hoff, a 355th Fighter Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment (AFE) craftsman, talks to Lt. Gen. Dorothy A. Hogg, Air Force Surgeon General, and Chief Master Sgt. Dawn Kolczynski, Chief, Medical Enlisted Force and Enlisted Corps Chief, about F-35 flight equipment during a
Eielson’s Iceman Spark team, in collaboration with the 354th Civil Engineering Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel and a team of two from Junior Force Warfighter Operations in the Materials and Manufacturing Directorate (designated “JFWORX”), held a live-fire test to assess the blast wave
U.S. Air Force Airman Tel Jensen, a 354th Maintenance Squadron munitions stockpile management crew chief, removes a lock during a munitions barge at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 16, 2021. The munitions barge is the biannual receiving, inspection and storing of munitions supplies to be used
The earth shakes continuously as a thunderous roar passes overhead. It’s source--rapid mobilization of Eielson’s entire fighter fleet.F-35A Lightning IIs, F-16 Fighting Falcons, and KC-135 Stratotankers rips through the clouds and as fast as the noise starts, it stops, and silence falls over the
U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Maj.) Jeffery Scott, the 354th Fighter Wing (FW) deputy wing chaplain, packs a deployment kit during Arctic Gold 21-2 April 8, 2021, on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. During AG 21-2, Airmen will be practicing Agile Combat Employment capabilities which will allow them to
At 3:20 a.m. an alarm goes off, waking up Heaven Fisher to start her day. She walks to her son, Carson’s room and gently shakes him awake. As a single parent, these mornings can be difficult but luckily for Fisher, she doesn’t have to do it alone.
“[To be a Chief Master Sergeant] means to constantly check yourself on your humility and remember that it’s not about you. It’s about the position that you’ve been entrusted in to make every interaction you have [with your Airmen] valuable. When that person walks away from that interpersonal
“I want to thank our team who’s running the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign this year and really encourage all of our teammates and families here on Eielson to contribute. Last year was a real challenge, as the COVID pandemic was just starting. This year they’ve made it a lot easier for us to
("Leading Edge" is a series of photo stories that focus on 354th Fighter Wing leaders' immersion with wing units and highlights their contribution to the mission.)
U.S. Space Force Gen. John “Jay” Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger Towberman, meet with Guardians assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing, on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 10, 2021. Space Force responsibilities include developing Guardians,
U.S. Air Force Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) commander, Chief Master Sgt. David Wolfe, PACAF command chief, and their spouses visited Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 18-19, 2021.
In April 2020, the Pacific Air Forces celebrated the arrival of its first F-35A Lightning II to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Now, in February 2021, PACAF is celebrating another milestone with the aircraft’s debut in Cope North 2021.
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska--Wind gusts as high as 50 miles per hour, wind chills dropping to minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and a place where the sun does not rise above the horizon for 65 consecutive days. Arctic Survival training is not for the faint of heart however for the survival, evasion,
Air forces from the United States, Japan and Australia will participate in Cope North 2021 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 3-19 to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) operations, as well as to conduct large force employment and combat air forces training.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Samuel Ley, a Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape specialist assigned to the Arctic Survival Training School, demonstrates how to set up a thermalized A-frame survival shelter on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Jan. 27, 2021. The shelter is designed to provide warmth
Many historical events took place in 2020 and most people are ready to move on and focus on the new year. However one thing has followed everyone into 2021, COVID-19.
The satellite dining facility held a grand re-opening on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Jan 21, 2021. The satellite DFAC was reopened to provide Airmen from the 354th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quicker access to food. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)
Team Eielson’s 354th Maintenance Group recently held its first quarter load crew competition, Jan. 8, 2021.This is the first time the competition is being held in several years since the return of uniformed service.
A KC-46A Pegasus, assigned to the 931st Air Refueling Wing (ARW), lands at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Jan. 11, 2020. The KC-46A is visiting Eielson to conduct cold-weather training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Beaux Hebert)
A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron (AGRS) signals the ‘Blue Fox’ hand gesture while taxing on the flight line at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Jan. 6, 2020. The 18th AGRS’s job is to replicate adversary tactics, techniques and procedures to provide a simulated combat
On June 5, 1969, the Rivet Amber, a unique RC-135 built as a reconnaissance aircraft went down over the Bering Sea. Nineteen Airmen perished, but their legacy lives on at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The aircrew and the aircraft have not been recovered to this day.
The 354th Fighter Wing and the 168th Wing Air National Guard completed a readiness exercise Dec. 18, 2020, verifying the wing’s ability to rapidly generate combat airpower at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. More than 30 fighters and two refueling aircraft were generated.
After 13 years, the 355th Fighter Squadron is making a comeback and they’re bringing fifth-generation airpower into the fight. The return was officially marked with a reactivation ceremony here Dec. 18 with Lt. Col. Samuel Chipman as it’s commander.
Acquiring a plan, materials, a team of qualified builders while braving months of below zero temperatures and the pressure of a pandemic, one squadron is here with the answers - the 354th Contracting Squadron.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Timothy Carlson, a 354th Maintenance Squadron non-destructive inspection (NDI) journeyman, guides Staff Sgt. Zachary Chambers, a 354th MXS NDI craftsman, as he aligns an x-ray tubehead on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Dec. 9, 2020. NDI specialists utilize x-rays,
There are unsung heroes within each squadron in the U.S. Air Force who lend an ear to stories that are not easy to listen to. They help people rebuild their lives and provide them with support during a difficult time.
Nearly 80 years ago, the U.S. was attacked on its home soil. This attack would serve to kick-start the U.S. military’s entrance into the second world war.
Airmen from the 354th Fighter Wing completed Arctic Gold 21-1, a Phase 1 readiness exercise, Nov.19, 2020.
The season to give thanks is upon us and Eielson First Sergeants led the way with OPERATION Turkey Drop.
Twelve F-35A Lightning IIs form up prior to take off at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 17, 2020. The 354th Fighter Wing conducted Arctic Gold 21-1, a Phase I readiness exercise designed to test the wing’s ability to rapidly deploy it’s F-35A fleet. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Keith
Winter in Alaska can either be a cool experience or a chilling undertaking for the unaware. With winter comes the blistering cold and here in the interior Alaska temperature could drop as low as negative 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Fortunately, winter is not impossible to understand. The first step to
Team Eielson recently welcomed a privatized housing resident advocate for service members and their families living in on-base privatized housing.
A 354th Fighter Wing Airman was found dead off base at approximately 9:55 a.m. Nov. 2.
The 2020 Combined Federal Campaign has started on Oct. 28, 2020 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
An Airman assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing was found dead off base at approximately 9:55 a.m., Nov. 2.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Garrett Hansen, a 354th Maintenance Squadron Aircraft Electrical and Environmental Systems journeyman, inspects a hose Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 7, 2020. Aircraft are composed of many hydraulic systems that require constant maintenance to test for leaking
“30 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 3…2…1...hack. Welcome to debrief.” With that, the 353rd Combat Training Squadron concluded RED FLAG-Alaska 21-1 signifying the end of RF-A 2020 season.
U.S. Army soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade, based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, conducted High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) infiltration raid training on Fort Greely, Alaska, during RED FLAG-Alaska, Oct. 15, 2020.The HIMARS is
U.S. Marine Corps aircraft mechanics assigned to the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 inspect an F/A-18 Hornet at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 20, 2020. RED FLAG-Alaska is a premier exercise designed to provide joint offensive counter-air, interdiction, close-air support, and large
Approximately 20 Marines with the 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company participated in an integration exercise with its sister services during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-1 in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex on Oct. 15, 2020.
The National Defense strategy has shifted from fighting insurgents and terrorist organizations to focusing on near-peer adversaries. This iteration of RED FLAG-Alaska is designed to ensure that if the U.S. has to engage or defend against near-peer adversaries, all U.S military branches could work
In November of 2019, Airmen from the 354th Fighter Wing developed a new arctic survival kit for the F-35A Lightning II. Now, 11 months later, the first kits are being installed in Eielson’s F-35A fleet.Eielson’s F-35As are the first of the Air Force’s fleet to be stationed in an arctic climate,
U.S. Navy aircraft mechanics assigned to the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 132 perform maintenance on an EA-18G Growler during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-1 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 13, 2020. RED FLAG-Alaska exercises are designed to provide training for deployed aircrew, maintenance and
The 354th Maintenance Group awarded the title of Dedicated Crew Chief to 29 maintainers in a ceremony Oct. 9, 2020, on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Matthew Washington, a 354th Maintenance Squadron (MXS) Aerospace Ground Equipment craftsman, lifts a tow bar at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 8, 2020. The 354th MXS provides aircraft maintenance and munitions support to RED FLAG-Alaska, tanker task force,
RED FLAG-Alaska 21-1, a Pacific Air Forces-directed field training exercise simulating realistic air combat conditions, is scheduled to begin Oct. 8 and continue through Oct. 23, 2020.
U.S. Air Force Col. David Berkland, left, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, speaks with Senior Master Sgt. Travis Glick, the 354th Force Support Squadron manpower and organization superintendent, during a wing leadership immersion on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 6, 2020. The manpower section
U.S. Air Force Col. David Berkland, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, talks with Airman Leadership School (ALS) instructors during a wing leadership immersion on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 29, 2020. The ALS instructors are responsible for teaching senior Airmen their role as military
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jared Clark, a 354th Communications Squadron (CS) client systems technician, teaches Col. David Berkland, the 354th Fighter Wing (FW) commander, how to mitigate network vulnerabilities on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 29, 2020. The 354th CS manages, operates,
Within the Air Force civil engineering community RED HORSE Squadrons are considered elite teams. They are focused, efficient, highly-skilled, and they wear cool red hats. Specializing in large-scale projects such as runways, aprons, facilities and utilities, the 554th RED HORSE Squadron was called
Two U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing diverted to the Bethel Airport when one of the aircraft experienced an in-flight emergency at approximately 9 p.m., Sept. 22.
Distant Frontier, a unit-level training exercise, began here Sept. 21 and will continue until RED FLAG-Alaska 21-1 kicks off in early October. Distant Frontier provides units an opportunity both before and after RF-A to train in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, drop live and inert weapons,
The 354th Medical Group has transitioned to the Military Health System GENESIS and is scheduled to go live on Oct. 31.MHS GENESIS is intended to be an integrative electronic health record that will provide a location for the MHS to document all patient’s healthcare activities and all care received
As of Sept. 1, the former medical operations and medical support squadrons changed to the 354th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron (OMRS) and the 354th Healthcare Operations Squadron (HCOS) to improve Eielson’s overall readiness.
The Hursey Gate is scheduled to reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020. The temporary access gate will close and all non-commercial traffic will utilize the Hursey Gate for normal operations.
The Arctic Fox 20-2 readiness exercise was completed Sept. 18 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 354th Force Support Squadron run on the track as part of the POW/MIA 24-hour Remembrance run at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 18, 2020. Eielson Airmen kept the POW/MIA flag in constant motion for 24 hours to honor service members who are prisoners of war
U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 35th Fighter Squadron out of Misawa Air Base, Japan, sit on the flightline at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 16, 2020. Distant Frontier provides pilots an opportunity to fly orientation flights in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex,
Pilots assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing’s 18th Aggressor Squadron are trading in snow-capped mountain ranges for the open ocean as they head south to participate in Exercise Valiant Shield 2020.
U.S. Air Force Maj. Charles Deignan, the 354th Contracting Squadron commander, poses for a photo at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 11, 2020. Deignan assumed command of the squadron in August. He previously served as the executive assistant in the Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime in
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brandon Brown, the 354th Security Forces Squadron noncommissioned officer head of operations, carries an American flag during a 9/11 Remembrance Ruck on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 11, 2020. The march honors those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001 and in
“For me, time felt like time slowed down and you could see the fire dancing around before getting extinguished. But exiting the structure I felt victorious, it was an awesome feeling; literally like a kid in a candy store,” said Tech. Sgt. Kristopher Jaime, the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron fire
The 354th Security Forces Squadron held a retirement ceremony for Military Working Dog Tedy in the Ernie Walker Theater at Eielson Air Force Base, Aug. 28, 2020. Tedy served as an explosive detection and patrol certified working dog for nine years, spending seven of those years guarding the families
Alaska is a constitutional carry state when it comes to firearms and many residents exercise that right. However, Eielson Air Force Base has its own set of rules when it comes to firearms.
The 354th Fighter Wing welcomed a new commander during an assumption of command ceremony Aug. 17, 2020.
In an effort to return more Airmen to duty quicker, the Air Force is rolling out a new medical model to restore the overall readiness of our military. The 354th Medical Group will be reorganized in the upcoming weeks, with the official activation scheduled for Sept. 15.
RED FLAG-Alaska 20-3, a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise, concluded Aug. 14, 2020.Flying participants completed roughly 560 sorties and racked up approximately 1,500 flying hours which contributed to the pilots gaining the confidence needed to execute combat operations.
U.S. Air Force Col. Shawn E. Anger, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, steps to an F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 13, 2020. Anger assumed command of the wing in May 2020. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Beaux Hebert)
Throughout the years, numerous types of aircraft have flown in the Alaskan skies during RED FLAG-Alaska. This year, a new fifth-generation fighter joins the fight.
The Comptroller Services Portal is an automated incident management application that allows customers to request and receive online assistance from their servicing comptroller squadron. CSP has integrated workflows which assist the customer in seeking help with travel pay, military pay and civilian
A 354th Fighter Wing Airman was pronounced dead at a local hospital following a medical emergency Aug. 3.
Effective Thursday, Aug. 5, 2020, the base will implement a new traffic pattern during morning rush hours between 6 and 8 a.m.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joshua Zacharko, an 18th Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) crew chief, inspects landing gear on an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft during RED FLAG-Alaska 20-3 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 4, 2020. The 18th AMU provides mission-ready maintainers to support the
An Airman assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing died at a local hospital at approximately 7:15 a.m., Aug. 3.
RED FLAG-Alaska 20-3, a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise designed to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment, began today and is slated to run until Aug. 14. The 18th Aggressor Squadron and its F-16 Fighting Falcons will be playing the bad guys, also known as ‘Red Air’,
A U.S. Air Force squadron commander was pronounced dead at the scene of an accident Aug. 1. Maj. Michael ‘Cal’ Gentry, 354th Contracting Squadron commander, was struck by a vehicle while on a cycling trip originating from the Fairbanks area and destined for Circle, Alaska. He was 37 years old.
Three Airmen assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing were involved in an off-base accident Aug. 1 leaving one Airman dead and another injured.
Three new F-35A Lightning II aircraft belonging to the 354th Fighter Wing arrived from the factory line at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, to their homestation on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 30, 2020.The fighter jets were flagships representing the 354th FW and the 355th and 356th
U.S Airmen from the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) flight render a salute during a ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 31, 2020. The ceremony was held to honor the 32 EOD Airmen who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. (U.S. Air Force photo
Tucked away in a corner of the 354th Maintenance Group is a small group of uniquely-skilled Airmen. Virtually any tool one needs to fix a piece of equipment can be found, but there is not a technical order in sight. This team has saved Eielson and the Air Force $2.7 million this year alone. A
In these uncertain times, day-to-day routines for people across the globe have been upended. There are many things that remain unclear yet even in the face of challenges like a runway closure amidst a global health pandemic the Iceman Team perseveres.The wing closed the runway and flight line for
U.S. Air Force Maj. Daniel Birge (right) renders a salute to Col. Matthew Powell (left), the 354th Maintenance Group commander, upon assuming command of the 354th Maintenance Squadron (MXS) during a ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 20, 2020. The 354th MXS provides heavy aircraft
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Clayton Rabens renders a salute to Col. William Thoms, Jr., the 354th Medical Group commander, upon assuming command of the 354th Medical Operations Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 17, 2020. Rabens is coming from the
Red Flag-Alaska 20-3, a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise designed to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment, with primary flight operations over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) is scheduled to begin Aug. 1 and run through Aug. 16.
Col. Shawn Anger, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, presided over the 354th Mission Support Group change of command ceremony, July 8, 2020, during which Col. Stuart Williamson assumed command from Col. Chad Bondurant.
Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett toured Arctic locations and visited with Airmen from the 354th Fighter Wing and 168th Wing July 7-9, 2020.While at Eielson, Barrett got an in-depth look at the 353rd Combat Training Squadron and 18th Aggressor Squadron missions and their roles for Pacific
U.S. Air Force Maj. Adam Starkey, the 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) commander, renders his first salute to a 354th LRS Airman after assuming command during a ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 8, 2020. The first salute is a tradition allowing the squadron to welcome their
The F-35A Lightning II fleet has officially doubled at Eielson with the arrival of three new F-35As June 25, 2020.The first two F-35As arrived in April and the third in May.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Randolph Kinsey (right) renders a salute to Col. David Skalicky, the 354th Operations Group commander, upon assuming command of the 18th Aggressor Squadron (AGRS) during a change of command ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 29, 2020. The 18th AGRS mission is to
He who holds Alaska holds the world. U.S. Army General Billy Mitchell first uttered those words in his 1935 testimony to Congress. Considered by many to be one the founding fathers of the U.S. Air Force, the World War I pilot declared what military aviators in the far north now know to be
A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Fighter Squadron lands on the Fairbanks International Airport runway at Fairbanks, Alaska, June 24, 2020. FAI Police and Fire Department personnel covered how to safely recover and shutdown the aircraft as well as how to coordinate operations
U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 354th Maintenance Squadron munitions flight built the first bombs intended for the 354th Fighter Wing’s F-35A Lighting IIs June 15-19. The last time a 354th FW unit dropped combat-specific bombs was about 10 years ago when the A-10 Thunderbolt II and F-16 Fighting
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Samuel Chipman, the 356th Fighter Squadron director of operations, conducts pre-flight checks at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 17, 2020. The flight marked the 100th sortie for Eielson’s F-35As. The first two fifth-generation fighters assigned to Eielson arrived to
U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers returned to the Indo-Pacific region June 14 to conduct bomber task force operations out of Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Nicholas C. Van Elsacker (right) renders a salute to Col. Chad Bondurant (left), the 354th Mission Support Group commander, upon assuming command of the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) during a change of command ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 12, 2020.
The U.S. Senate confirmed Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., June 9, to be the 22nd Air Force chief of staff, clearing the way for the decorated pilot and experienced commander to become the first African American in history to lead a branch of the U.S. military as its highest-ranking officer.
U.S. Air Force Capt. Robert Norris, the 354th Operations Support Squadron airfield operations flight commander, received the 2019 Colonel Darrel L. Dempsey Airfield Operations Officer of the Year award.The award recognizes airfield operations officers who contribute to an outstanding degree, their
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Gregory A. Hunger (right) renders a salute to Col. David Skalicky (left), the 354th Operations Group (OG) commander, upon assuming command of the 353d Combat Training Squadron during a change of command at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 5, 2020. Hunger was previously
Airmen from the 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels operations section and the 356th Aircraft Maintenance Unit worked together to conduct the first hot pit refueling operation for the F-35A Lightning II at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, on June 2, 2020. “Hot pitting is the hot refueling of
Master Sgt. Stephanie Beil, the 354th Force Support Squadron operations flight superintendent, was named the Pacific Air Forces’ Force Support Squadron Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.“Winning this award is a great honor; I didn’t accomplish this achievement alone -- I had an amazing
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Jokhy (left) renders a salute to Col. David Skalicky (right), the 354th Operations Group commander, upon assuming command of the 354th Operations Support Squadron (OSS) during a change of command at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 29, 2020. The 354th OSS provides
The Maintenance Professional of the Year, or MPOY, Award is a very competitive award. Its nominees are selected from a variety of Air Force Specialty Codes that directly and indirectly support flying operations. These Airmen work daily to ensure Aircraft are in tip top shape for Aircrew to execute
In continued demonstration of the U.S. Air Force’s dynamic force employment model, two U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers flew from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and conducted training in Alaska, and Japan May 21.
In the five years he’s worked as an F-35A Lightning II crew chief Staff Sgt. Christopher Mashek has watched jets land on the flight line hundreds of times. He guides pilots to their parking spots, ensures aircraft maintenance records are up to date and scans jets for needed repairs. On April 21, a
In the spring of 2019, the 354th Operations Group, Detachment 4 was established with the plan to eventually grow the unit into its own squadron. The 354th Fighter Wing activated the 354th Range Squadron on May 13, 2020, to increase the prominence of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex as a venue
U.S. Air Force Col. Benjamin Bishop, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, inspects an F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron prior to his fini flight at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 6, 2020. Bishop assumed command of the 354th FW on July 6, 2018 and will be relinquishing
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-35 Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing are scheduled to honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with a flyover of Fairbanks Memorial Hospital and the downtown Fairbanks area between 10 a.m. and noon
Pacific Air Forces named one of Eielson’s Defenders, Tech. Sgt. Matthew R. Dobbins, the 354th Security Forces Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of operations, the 2019 PACAF NCO of the year.
Fighter aircraft assigned to Eielson Air Force Base flew together in the skies over Denali National Park, Alaska May 5, 2020.
Eielson fighters participated in a mass formation of Total Force Airmen displaying the ability of active-duty, Guard and Reserve forces to plan and fly together to provide airpower in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific and homeland security despite the COVID-19 global pandemic.
The Eielson Air Force Base Commissary began a curbside pick-up program open to all Airmen and families, April 30.
The Eielson Hursey Gate will be closed effective May 29, 2020, at 10 p.m. for construction.All vehicles will be directed to an alternate entry gate established on the temporary access road for use during the construction period expected to wrap up in August 2020. Road signs will be posted.
The Air Force’s first combat-coded F-35A Lightning II wing is sending aircraft to the Air Force’s newest F-35A wing to help speed their stand-up. On April 27, four F-35A Lightning IIs from Hill’s 388th Fighter Wing took off on a four-hour flight across the Pacific Northwest for Eielson Air Force
U.S. Air Force Maj. Grant Saum, the 354th Fighter Wing F-35 Program Integration Office director of operations, and Maj. Brian Mueller, the 356th Fighter Squadron (FS) assistant director of operations, prepare to step to the aircraft at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 24, 2020. This marked the
Eielson celebrates F-35 beddown completion
RF-A 22-1 concludes at Eielson AFB
Vehicle Management maintains sortie-generating assets during RF-A 22-1
Managing Alaska’s 77,000 square mile airspace
RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 kicks off at Eielson
U.S. Air Force, JASDF forces develop new skills with ACE
Team Hickam delivers first formula flight
Yokota Friendship Jump 2022
Day and Night, rain or shine: DAGREs fast rope into action
“Trusted Care, Anywhere” Click here for information about your Eielson Air Force Base Military Treatment Facility
EIELSON-SPECIFIC COVID INFO
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