Two Ohio Air National Guard units have received new missions—one is probably very happy, while the other should just be glad to have a new role. The 179th Airlift Wing at Mansfield, slated to lose its elderly C-130 tactical transports, will get to keep on flying in new Joint Cargo Aircraft. The 178th Fighter Wing at Springfield will lose its F-16 fighters and take on an intelligence role with the creation of a new measurement and signature intelligence unit. Announcing the new missions, Gov. Bob Taft said the new missions are recognition of the hard work and dedication of the men and women of both units. He also credited the Ohio Congressional delegation and local communities. The Mansfield area folks secured a Labor Department grant to help them prep for the mission hunt.
U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles have roared out of Barnes Air National Guard Base, Mass., for the last time. The 104th Fighter Wing’s last three F-15Cs departed the base Oct. 23 for the “Boneyard” at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., ending the aircraft's era on the frontlines of homeland defense.
