240410-Z-WT236-1013

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 169th Fighter Wing, South Carolina Air National Guard, are greeted by family and wing personnel as they return from a six-month deployment to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility April 10, 2024. Approximately 150 Swamp Fox Airmen deployed in support of 9th Air Force (Air Forces Central) to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, the unit’s first deployment as an expeditionary air base team under the new Air Force Force Generation model.

South Carolina National Guard Airmen Return From Deployment

Published April 15, 2024
By Capt. Lisa Allen,
169th Fighter Wing

MCENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE, S.C. - Airmen assigned to the 169th Fighter Wing returned to South Carolina April 10, ending a six-month deployment to U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility as part of the new Air Force Force Generation (AFFORGEN) model.

During their deployment, the 150 South Carolina Air National Guard Airmen fulfilled the tasking order from the 9th Air Force (Air Forces Central), offering agile combat support and strengthening partnerships crucial for CENTCOM operations.

U.S. Air Force Col. Michael Ferrario, commander of the 169th Fighter Wing, expressed his gratitude to the Airmen for their work.

“Our Airmen played a critical role in executing a mission of national, regional and global importance. They trained extensively to execute any mission they may be called to do, and I am proud of how they performed and represented the Air National Guard and the state of South Carolina.”

The deployment was the SCANG’s largest since 2021, when they previously supported an Air Expeditionary Force rotation to the Middle East.

Together with other active and reserve units aligned under the CENTCOM area of responsibility, the “Swamp Fox” Airmen provided agile combat support for CENTCOM operations throughout the Middle East.

Although the 169th Fighter Wing members have returned home, their mission remains ongoing. The 169th Fighter Wing continues to uphold readiness, ensuring that the challenges of tomorrow are met with preparedness today.