335th FS, 335th FGS return from deployment

GOLDSBORO — Airmen and multiple F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson recently returned home to following a six-month deployment.

Approximately 350 Airmen assigned to the 335th Fighter Squadron and 335th Fighter Generation Squadron, along with F-15E deployed Strike Eagle aircraft to the Air Forces Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, where they provided air-to-air and air-to-ground defenses.

“The 335th Fighter Squadron flew defensive counter-air missions protecting bases in the AOR,” said Maj. Eric Fenske, 335th FS assistant director of operations of inspections. “They were flying 24-hour operations and remained airborne and available at any given time to defend against air or ground threats.”

These Airmen worked around the clock to ensure the aircraft were ready to fly and operate at any time.

“We executed integrated combat turns and engine running crew changes at several airfields in the AFCENT area of responsibility,” said Lt. Col. Edward Francis, 335th FS director of operations. “Each of these exercises demonstrated the Chiefs’ proficiency in the areas that are critical to agile combat employment performance, which set a baseline for AFCENT to build from.”

After six months deployed, the Airmen were welcomed back to Seymour Johnson AFB by their families and friends.

“The men and women of the 335th enterprise answered the call at every turn regardless of the mission, the shifts, or the health of the fleet,” said Francis. “Despite the challenges, everyone persevered to answer their nation’s call and I’ve never met a finer group willing to sacrifice to accomplish the mission.”

— By Senior Airman Kevin Holloway, Seymour Johnson AFB