124th Fighter Wing Deploys To Southwest Asia

(GOWEN FIELD) — The Idaho Air National Guard is mobilizing to various locations throughout Southwest Asia in support of combat operations.

More than 400 members of the 124th Fighter Wing based at Gowen Field will continue to deploy throughout the spring and summer in support of Operations FREEDOM'S SENTINEL, INHERENT RESOLVE and NEW NORMAL. Deployments typically last up to 180 days.

This is the second largest deployment in the wing’s history and includes multiple aircraft, pilots, security forces, maintenance and medical personnel, along with various other support staff. The official sendoff took place today with the departure of the main body of personnel.

Deploying Airmen received farewell remarks from Idaho National Guard leadership, including the Idaho National Guard Commander in chief Gov. Brad Little and the Adjutant General of Idaho Maj. Gen. Michael Garshak.

“We recognize the impact this mission will have on our community and we deeply appreciate the sacrifice of Idaho's service members," Idaho Governor Brad Little said. “This deployment once again displays the commitment of the 124th Fighter Wing and its members, as well as the dedication demonstrated by the community of families, state and local leaders, neighbors and employers who provide unwavering support to our service members.”

Since 1946, the Idaho Air National Guard has flown fighter aircraft in the defense of our nation. The last large scale deployment of the 124th Fighter Wing was in 2016, in support of combat operations against ISIS. It was also the largest deployment in the wing’s history.