An MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft crashed in Southern Afghanistan March 14, according to Air Forces Central. The crash was not due to hostile fire, but, as is the practice, a board will be convened to investigate the incident to determine the cause. AFCENT said the crash site had been secured and there were no reports of injuries or property damage. (AFCENT release)
Air Force F-16 pilot Lt. Col. Eric R. Emerson, who commanded a small quick reaction force of fighters responding to Iranian-backed militia groups in 2024, became the first Air National Guardsman presented with the Anthony C. Shine Award on Feb. 10.

