TSgt. James Thompson, an anti-terrorism force protection specialist with the 425th Air Base Group at Izmir, Turkey, received the Bronze Star medal in October for his efforts during a 12-month deployment to Joint Base Balad, Iraq. According to a Dec. 22 release from the group, Thompson planned and executed more than 497 unit combat patrols during his deployment and facilitated tactical responses to 477 combat incidents, including 12 improvised explosive device attacks. He also identified force protection shortfalls at seven Iraqi police stations and coordinated more than $2 million worth of improvement contracts to enhance the stations’ defenses and operations. “I am deeply honored to have been awarded the Bronze Star,” said Thompson said. Col. Richard Robel, 425 ABG commander, said Thompson’s “selflessness and dedication” is a “credit to Air Force defenders.”
Where Things Stand with Every Planned V-22 Fix
Feb. 11, 2026
The Air Force’s CV-22 Osprey fleet started receiving new proprotor gearboxes last month—and officials say they’re planning a comprehensive midlife upgrade for the V-22 to address concerns over its safety and reliability.
