The 376th Air Expeditionary Wing at Manas AB, Krygyzstan, set a record in March for moving more than 10,000 passengers to forward deployed locations in Afghanistan or redeploying forces headed home. They also set another mark in March, by moving 1,622 passengers in one day, surpassing the previous record from 2005. “It wasn’t difficult at all; it was a streamlined process fueled by great teamwork,” said TSgt. Curtis Kervin, of the wing. “I think we all realize the importance of a smooth transition for every person that sets foot into the area of responsibility. After all, Manas Air Base may be their first or last stop.” (Manas report by TSgt. Jerome Baysmore)
U.S. Southern Command recently announced its first lethal strike on a suspected narco-trafficking vessel in two months, and the first under a newly formed permanent counter-cartel task force. The U.S. is also reportedly planning to transfer MQ-9 drones to Colombia to bolster its counter-cartel efforts.