The Department of Defense recently recognized the 31st Fighter Wing at Aviano AB, Italy, as having the best anti-terrorism program for an installation in 2008. “It’s nice to be recognized at the DOD-level,” said Bill Trevino, 31st FW antiterrorism officer and program manager, adding, “Everyone involved in the Aviano AT program works hard, and this type of recognition just makes all that hard work worthwhile.” The wing’s AT activities incorporate the work of several base offices, including the wing’s own AT shop, Air Force Office of Special Investigations Det. 531, the 31st Operations Support Squadron intelligence office, 31st Security Forces Squadron, and 31st Civil Engineer Squadron. “The relationship between all wing organizations that make up the primary force protection team is the best I’ve ever seen,” said AFOSI Special Agent Nate Notargiacomo. (Aviano report by SSgt. Lindsey Maurice)
The Air Force's new Aircraft Readiness Unit will maintain and provide Collaborative Combat Aircraft for operations, but won’t serve as a “schoolhouse” teaching fighter pilots how to manage these escort drones.