WESTFIELD – Expect the skies over Westfield to be a little quieter for the next few months — the “Barnestormers” are deploying.
Staff and equipment from the 131st Fighter Squadron Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield are heading off to Europe and will be joined by the 194th Fighter Squadron, Fresno Air National Guard Base, California. Airmen said goodbye to family and friends yesterday afternoon.
The deployment marks the latest iteration of a Theater Security Package (TSP) in the European theater supporting Operation Atlantic Resolve.
This deployment is not only a training mission but to also demonstrate the U.S. commitment to a Europe that is whole, free, at peace, secure, and prosperous and to deter further Russian aggression.
It is expected that the deployment will last upwards of 6 months.
“Our defense relationships with allies like Iceland are critical to ensuring security for the United States and NATO,” said Col. James Keefe, Commander of the 104th Fighter Wing, “We continue to support the National Security both home and abroad with partner nations and allies.”
Master Sergeant Julie Avey said that about 200 Airmen left on transport planes around 1 p.m. Thursday afternoon. Airmen will also deploy to Leeuwarden Air Base in the Netherlands and other partnering nations.
The F-15 Eagle fighter jets and their pilots are flying out this weekend.
