US Airpower Summary, Feb. 24, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 24, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Feb. 23, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Konduz, Regional Command-North
U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon pilots and F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly ground forces and several friendly convoys. Friendly ground forces reported taking enemy small-arms fire and requested shows of force to prevent further enemy aggression. The shows of force, with flares launched, were performed over enemy positions and deemed successful when desired effects were achieved.

Asadabad, RC-E
U.S. Air Force F-15E aircrews conducted shows of force in support of a friendly-forces ground operation. The shows of force were declared successful.

Karbala, RC-S
U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet aircrews conducted a show of force, with flares, to support a friendly-forces ground operation. The show of force was deemed successful.

Chahar Bagh, RC-S
U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet aircrews conducted a show of force. The show of force was declared successful.

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer aircrew provided reconnaissance support over several convoy routes and later conducted an armed overwatch mission for a friendly-forces convoy. A show of force was conducted to deter potential enemy activity in the area of the convoy routes and was declared successful when no enemy action was noted.

U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet aircrews conducted a show of force, launching a flare. The show of force was deemed successful.

Qalat, RC-S
A B-1B aircrew provided reconnaissance support for friendly forces and conducted a show of force to deter potential enemy activity in the area. The show of force was declared successful when no enemy action was noted.

U.S. Navy F/A-18C Hornet pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Pilots conducted a show of force, with flares launched, which was declared successful.

Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces convoy. The pilots conducted a show of force, with flares launched, over the convoy to deter potential enemy action in the vicinity of the convoy. The show of force was successful as no enemy action was noted.

Surkhabad, RC-S
A B-1B aircrew provided reconnaissance support and conducted shows of force to deter a possible enemy attack against friendly ground forces in the area. The shows of force, with flares launched, were declared successful when no enemy action was noted. The aircrew later provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces infiltration and extraction operation.

Airlift Action

Paktika province, RC-E
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Paktika Province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 70,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces to sustain ground operations.

Badghis Province, RC-W
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Badghis Province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 18,000 pounds of supplies.

Konar Province, RC-E
U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrews flew a combat-resupply mission in Konar Province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 30,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 80
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 16

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 36
Sorties flown in Iraq: 29

On Feb. 22
Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 145
Short tons of delivered cargo: 788
Passengers: nearly 3,200
Airdropped cargo: approximately 120,000 pounds

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 44
Fuel delivered: approximately 2.6 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 200

Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 9 patients
Sorties flown to support OEF: 8
Sorties flown to support OIF: 1
Personnel Recovery/Hero Flight: None

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Feb. 22, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 22, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Feb. 21 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Asmar, Regional Command-East
U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon pilots provided armed overwatch and area reconnaissance for a dismounted patrol and convoy. The pilots received orders to destroy two enemy fighting positions in an adjacent area. The pilots destroyed the positions with precision-guided munitions.

Asadabad, RC-E
U.S. Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch to friendly forces and received orders to deny a fighting position to enemy forces. The pilots received coordinates and released precision-guided munitions, destroying the enemy fighting position while eliminating a threat to friendly forces.

U.S. Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch for dismounted patrols. The pilots conducted a show of force to prevent hostile activity in the vicinity of patrols. The show of force was considered successful. No enemy action occurred.

Oruzgan, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer aircrew provided armed overwatch of a friendly forces extraction operation, an enemy fighting position for suspicious activity and the site of a recent improvised explosive device explosion. They also conducted a show of presence to reassure friendly forces airpower was in the area.

Moqor, RC-E
U.S. Air Force F-15E pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Pilots conducted a show of presence to reassure ground troops that airpower was overhead.

Airlift Action

Helmand province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-supply mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 28,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Badghis Helmand province, RC-W
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Badghis province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 20,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Helmand province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 60,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Farah province, RC-W
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Farah province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 30,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Afghanistan
An Air Force C-130 aircrew distributed informational leaflets via airdrop to locations across Afghanistan.

Nimroz province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, airdropping combat-sustainment supplies to friendly forces. The aircrew dropped approximately 30,000 pounds of supplies.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF and Afghan security forces: 63
Sorties flown to support Operation Iraqi Freedom: 18

Surveillance and Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 21
Sorties flown in Iraq: 34

On Feb. 20
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 9 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 40
Fuel delivered: approximately 2.3 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 190

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 178
Short tons of delivered cargo: 1,021
Passengers: nearly 3,800
Airdropped cargo: approximately 170,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Feb. 10, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 10, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Feb. 9, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Lashkar Gah, Regional Command- South
A coalition aircraft provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircraft conducted several reconnaissance missions for friendly ground forces. When insurgents approached friendly forces and fired, the aircraft fired a missile and stopped insurgent fire against friendly forces.

Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots conducted a show of force in order to deter enemy action while a group of friendly forces tactically withdrew from the area. A short time later, pilots conducted another show of force when friendly forces came under fire during the withdrawal. The shows of force were declared successful when friendly forces left the area without further incident.

Balocan, RC-S
Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots conducted shows of force, with flares, that were determined successful by ground control.

Airlift Action

Helmand province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-airdrop mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, delivering approximately 30,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Konar province, RC-E
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Konar province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 30,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Helmand province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a second combat-sustainment mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, airdropping nearly 35,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Uruzgan province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 15,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Paktika province, RC-E
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Paktika province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 70,000 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Uruzgan province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, airdropping nearly 36,000 pounds of combat-sustainment supplies to friendly forces.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 78
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 16

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 42
Sorties flown in Iraq: 28

On Feb. 8
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 15 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 34
Fuel delivered: nearly 1.7 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 143

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 145
Short tons of delivered cargo: 833
Passengers: nearly 2,700
Airdropped cargo: nearly 215,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Feb. 9, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 9, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Feb. 8, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Bagram, Regional Command-East
U. S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces dismounted patrol. The aircrews conducted a show of force, with flares launched, to deter anti-Afghan forces activity.

Chahar Bagh, RC-S
U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet aircrews provided armed overwatch for coalition ground forces. When coalition forces reported taking enemy small-arms fire from several directions, the aircrews received coordinates for multiple enemy positions and conducted shows of force over each one to deter enemy action. The shows of force were determined successful by ground control when enemy fire ceased.

Kabul, RC-E
U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircrews conducted a show of force, with flares launched, to deter anti-Afghan forces activity. The show of force was declared successful by ground control when no enemy fire occurred.

Airlift Action

Afghanistan
An Air Force C-130 aircrew distributed informational leaflets via airdrop to locations across Afghanistan.

Farah Province, RC-W
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Farah province, Afghanistan, delivering approximately 69,000 pounds of sustainment supplies via airdrop to friendly forces for ongoing operations.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 42
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 24

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 26
Sorties flown in Iraq: 23
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: NONE
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On Feb. 7
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 2 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 32
Fuel delivered: nearly 1.2 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 100

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 129
Short tons of delivered cargo: 703
Passengers: nearly 3,600
Airdropped cargo: nearly 70,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

National Guard Preps for East Coast Snowmageddon

In this file photo, Army Sgt. 1st Class Jason Mannarino of the Wisconsin National Guard hooks up a chain to pull snowplow from a snow bank, Dec. 9, 2009. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Vaughn R. Larson.)

On the Home Front:

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 5, 2010 -- Schools are closing, weekend activities are being cancelled and the federal government here will shut down four hours early today, but the National Guard is on duty in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia in anticipation of a major winter storm.

About 660 Guardsmen have been activated for a storm that is expected to dump up to 28 inches of snow and bring high winds to the northern and western parts of Virginia and then continue north up the East Coast this weekend.

"This storm will bring severe weather to many parts of Virginia,” said Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell. “As the storm affects your area, please stay off the roads and contact local authorities if help is needed."

McDonnell declared a state of emergency Feb. 3, and the state’s Department of Military Affairs is staging more than 400 personnel from the Virginia Army and Air National Guard and Virginia Defense Force at key locations in the commonwealth.

If needed, the DMA will bring an additional 100 personnel on duty when the weather picture and state and local support requirements become clearer, according to a news release from the state.

“We are moving DMA personnel into position in order to be on standby for possible missions to assist state and local emergency response organizations with rescue and transportation operations,” said Army Col. Rob McMillin, a Virginia National Guard joint operations officer.

Personnel were expected to be in place yesterday and to be ready for duty this morning, Guard officials reported.

McMillin stressed that the Virginia National Guard receives its missions through the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to assist state and local emergency response organizations and is not able to respond to direct support requests from the public.

“During the winter storm in December 2009, we received calls directly from citizens, and we are not able to respond to those requests.” McMillin said. “We urge people who need assistance to make a request through their local dispatcher or 911 services, and that request will be forwarded to the DMA when appropriate.”

McMillin said the initial plan is to place Virginia National Guard personnel with Humvees on duty at locations throughout the commonwealth.

This is the third time since the middle of December the DMA has called up Guardsmen for weather-related duty. The DMA had nearly 250 soldiers, airmen and members on duty throughout southern Virginia on Jan. 29 and 700 on duty after a storm that began Dec. 18.

In Maryland, the National Guard has pre-positioned its forces and equipment to provide support to civil authorities. Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley is expected to declare a state emergency later today.

“The Maryland National Guard always stands ready to support the governor and the citizens of Maryland,” said Army Lt. Col. Charles Kohler, the state public affairs officer. “We provide essential, lifesaving services when local and state response capabilities are overwhelmed, including the capability to provide transportation, shelter, food, water and medical support.

He added that the National Guard has 34 armories across Maryland that also will be used to support this ongoing operation.

In the District of Columbia, Washington Mayor Andrew Fenty declared a snow emergency this morning. The National Guard will provide 12 Humvees and 60 soldiers to help in implementing the district’s Snow Emergency Management Plan.

In Delaware, Gov. Jack Markell is prepared to declare a state of emergency, his spokesman said. If needed, the Delaware National Guard will be mobilized.

In South Dakota, 16 Guardsmen are still on duty helping to re-establish road and utility infrastructure and conduct search-and-rescue operations as required by local authorities. The state experienced strong winter storms with high winds, snow, and freezing rain on Jan. 23, and more than 2,000 residents are currently without power throughout the state.

National Guard missions normally performed during snow operations include assisting local law enforcement with transportation and evacuation, distribution of supplies, road clearing and snow removal, search and rescue, security and law enforcement airspace coordination, aircraft support and patient evacuations, airspace coordination, and sheltering assistance.

(Report by Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, National Guard Bureau with contributions by Army Maj. Cotton Puryear of the Virginia National Guard.)

US Airpower Summary, Feb. 4, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 4, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Feb. 3, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Lashkar Gah, Regional Command- South
A coalition aircraft provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircraft conducted several reconnaissance missions over the area. When insurgents approached friendly forces, the aircraft fired a missile to stop the insurgent advance against friendly forces.

U.S. Marine AV-8B Harrier pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots conducted a show of force, with numerous flares launched, in order to deter enemy action when a group of insurgents were observed gathering for an attack directed against friendly forces. The show of force was declared successful when the insurgents dispersed without further incident.

Malek Din, RC-S
Coalition pilots were directed to destroy two HumVees that had been damaged and disabled in an earlier engagement so that the vehicles would not fall into enemy hands. The pilots rolled in on the targets and precision-guided munitions were released which rendered the vehicles useless to enemy forces.

Musa Qala, RC-S
Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Aircrews conducted shows of force to deter enemy fire. The shows of force were declared successful when no enemy action was noted.

Airlift Action

Paktika province, RC-E
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Paktika province, Afghanistan, airdropping combat-sustainment supplies to friendly forces. Approximately 70,000 pounds of supplies were dropped.

Helmund province, RC-S
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission in Helmund Province, Afghanistan, delivering approximately 32,500 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

Afghanistan
A U.S. Air Force C-130 aircrew distributed informational leaflets via airdrop to locations across Afghanistan.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 81
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 20

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 16
Sorties flown in Iraq: 25
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: NONE
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On Feb. 2
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 6 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 44
Fuel delivered: nearly 3.1 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 218

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 164
Short tons of delivered cargo: 746
Passengers: nearly 3,500
Airdropped cargo: nearly 105,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Feb. 2, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Feb. 2, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Feb. 1, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Close Air Support

Balocan, Regional Command-South
U.S. Navy F/A-18C Hornet pilots provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces dismounted patrol. Friendly forces requested air support when an enemy position opened fire with small arms. Once coordinates for the enemy position were received, pilots conducted shows of force, with flares launched, against the target, which stopped the enemy fire. No further enemy action was noted.

Jalalabad, RC-E
Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon pilots provided armed overwatch and force protection for friendly forces. The pilots conducted a show of force, with flares launched, to deter any potential enemy fie during a helicopter operation. The show of force was successful as no enemy action was noted.

Mushan, RC-S
U.S. Navy F/A-18C pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots conducted a show of force to deter enemy fire. The show of force, with flares launched, was successful as no enemy action was noted.

Airlift Action

Ghazni Province, RC-E
An Air Force C-130 Hercules aircrews flew a combat-resupply mission in the Ghazni province, Afghanistan, dropping to friendly forces on the ground. Approximately 34,500 pounds of supplies were airdropped.

Zabul Province, RC-S
A C-130 aircrew flew a combat-sustainment mission in Zabul province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 27,600 pounds of supplies to friendly forces.

An Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircrew flew a combat-resupply mission to a remote location in Zabul province, Afghanistan, airdropping approximately 32,500 pounds of needed supplies to friendly forces.

A C-17 aircrew airdropped approximately 32,500 pounds of supplies to friendly forces during on a combat-resupply mission to another remote location in Zabul province, Afghanistan.

Air Operations in Iraq:

Mosul
Pilots of U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft conducted a show of force over a convoy they were escorting when suspicious personnel began to surround the convoy vehicles. The show of force was successful in stopping the crowd, which dispersed from the area leaving the convoy to continue its mission.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF and Afghan security forces: 87
Sorties flown to support Operation Iraqi Freedom: 24

Surveillance and Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 32
Sorties flown in Iraq: 8
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: None
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On Jan. 31
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 4 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 43
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.6 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 220

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 172
Short tons of delivered cargo: 847
Passengers: nearly 3,800
Airdropped cargo: nearly 130,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Jan. 28, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 28, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Jan. 27, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Balocan
Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots responded with cannon-fire strafing runs when friendly forces reported taking enemy small arms fire. The enemy fire ceased immediately.

A-10 pilots were again in the area providing armed overwatch and aerial surveillance for friendly ground forces. The pilots were looking for any suspicious or preemptive enemy movement prior to the friendly forces entering the area. The pilots conducted a show of force, with flares launched, to continue deterring any enemy movement in the area.

A B-1B Lancer aircrew provided armed escort to a large friendly-forces convoy during the night. The aircrew remained overhead during the entire movement. A show of force was conducted midway to deter enemy action.

Asmar
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircrews released precision-guided munitions on an enemy fighting position to allow friendly forces to break contact with enemy forces. The strike was successful.

Salerno Landing Zone
Air Force F-15E aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly ground forces and conducted a show of force to deter enemy action. The friendly forces had reported taking enemy small arms fire. The show of force was successful as the enemy fire ceased.

Konduz
The air over Konduz was busy as U.S. Air Force F-15E aircrews provided armed overwatch and force protection for friendly forces and Coalition forces in the area. Both friendly and Coalition forces reported taking enemy fire and requested air power to suppress it. The aircrews confirmed points of origin for the enemy fire and released precision-guided munitions against enemy positions. Then, aircrews followed up with strafing runs to finish the mission. Ground forces reported no additional enemy fire.

Lashkar Gah
Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly-forces during a town-hall meeting. Pilots observed suspicious activity in a field and conducted a show of force to deter any potential enemy action. The show of force was successful as no enemy action took place.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 6
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 22

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 9
Sorties flown in Iraq: 32
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: NONE
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On Jan. 26
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 2 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 35
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.2 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 121

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 166
Short tons of delivered cargo: 574
Passengers: nearly 3,100
Airdropped cargo: nearly 125,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Jan. 27, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 27, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Jan. 26, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Asadabad
Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces and surveillance of known enemy fighting positions. When an imminent threat to friendly forces was observed, a pre-emptive strike on the enemy position with a precision-guided munition ended the threat to the friendly patrol.

Soltani
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch and force protection for friendly forces and conducted a show of force to deter potential enemy action. Later, aircrews observed suspicious personnel and conducted a show of presence to deter enemy action. Both actions were successful and no enemy action was noted in the area.

Morghab
Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly ground forces when they reported taking enemy fire. After confirming the enemy fighting position along a tree-line, pilots commenced numerous strafing runs to deter and end enemy fire. When friendly forces were ready to withdraw from the area, the aircrew conducted armed overwatch to deter enemy fire and allow friendly forces to leave. The friendly forces returned to base without further incident.

Asmar
U.S. Air Force F-15E aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Aircrews conducted a show of force to deter enemy fire and protect friendly forces. The show of force was successful.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF and Afghan security forces: 54
Sorties flown to support Operation Iraqi Freedom: 12

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 7
Sorties flown in Iraq: 31
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: None
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On Jan. 25
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 3 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 37
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.2 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 168

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 152
Short tons of delivered cargo: 743
Passengers: nearly 2,800
Airdropped cargo: nearly 165,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Jan. 26, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 26, 2009 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Jan. 25, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Asadabad
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces dismounted patrol. In addition, the aircrews conducted surveillance of the area. When the possibility of an ambush was discovered, a pre-emptive strike on the enemy position with a precision-guided munition eliminated the threat to the friendly patrol.

Chahar Bagh
Air Force MQ-9A Reaper operators provided armed overwatch and force protection for friendly forces. The Reaper operators observed individuals acting suspiciously then fire on friendly forces. Ground forces confirmed the coordinates of the hostile position. Operators fired missiles against the enemy position and the threat to friendly forces was eliminated.

Coalition aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircrews were tasked for surveillance of several known enemy firing positions in the area. When ground forces reported taking sporadic enemy small arms fire, a show of force was conducted and the enemy fire eventually ceased.

Qal-E-Naw
An Air Force B-1B Lancer aircrew provided armed overwatch for friendly forces several times when they reported taking indiscriminant enemy fire. When the friendly forces were ready to evacuate the area, the aircrew conducted a show of force to deter the enemy fire and allow friendly forces to leave without further incident.

Surkhabad
Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots were tasked for surveillance of an enemy firing position actively firing mortars on friendly forces. A precision-guided munition was employed on the enemy compound and the enemy fire ceased.

Coalition aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. When ground forces reported taking indirect enemy fire, a show of force was conducted to deter further enemy fire and protect friendly forces. The show of force was successful.

Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Once the pilots were on station, they received a report of friendly forces taking enemy fire who requested air support. The coalition pilots utilized a precision-guided munition and a strafing run to neutralize the enemy position, eliminating the threat to friendly forces.

Kandahar
Coalition pilots conducted a show of force to deter possible enemy activity. The show of force was declared successful when the no enemy action was noted.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 65
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 14

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 31
Sorties flown in Iraq: 26
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: NONE
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On January 24
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 2 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 36
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.0 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 164

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 161
Short tons of delivered cargo: 818
Passengers: nearly 3,500
Airdropped cargo: nearly 245,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Jan. 25, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 25, 2009 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Jan. 24, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Lashkar Gah
Air Force MQ-1B Predator operators provided armed overwatch and force protection for friendly forces. The Predator operators observed an individual acting suspiciously. Ground forces confirmed the person was a suicide bomber with hostile intentions. Operators fired a missile against the enemy position and the threat to friendly forces was eliminated.

Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots were tasked to destroy a vehicle and a confirmed weapons cache to deter enemy activity. Several precision-guided munitions were released and successfully destroyed the intended targets.

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for a coalition forces patrol and friendly ground forces. The aircrews conducted shows of force to deter enemy action in the vicinity of ground forces. Both were declared successful when no further enemy action was noted.

Asadabad
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for coalition forces. An enemy fighting position was observed firing on coalition forces with a machine gun and the aircrews released precision-guided munitions against the enemy position, destroying the position and ending the enemy fire.

A B-1B Lancer aircrew provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircrew was directed to conduct a show of force to deter enemy action when friendly forces reported taking enemy fire. The show of force was considered a success when no further enemy aggression was noted.

Mushan
Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The pilots destroyed an enemy weapons cache and an enemy vehicle with precision-guided munitions.

Surkhabad
Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots provided armed overwatch for coalition forces. The pilots conducted shows of force to deter a possible enemy attack. The shows of force, with flares launched, were considered successful when the enemy attack did not occur. Then the pilots provided armed overwatch of the area to deter any other enemy threats.

A-10 pilots provided armed reconnaissance for coalition forces. When coalition forces reported taking enemy small arms fire from a nearby compound, the pilots released a precision-guide munition and conducted a strafing run with cannon fire against the compound and the enemy fire ceased.

Konduz
Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch for friendly forces under imminent threat of an enemy attack. The pilots conducted shows of force to deter enemy fire on the friendly forces. The shows of force, one with flares launched, were deemed successful when the threat of attack was diffused.

F-15E aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. The aircrews conducted shows of force, with flares launched, to deter anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of friendly forces. The shows of force succeeded in preventing enemy action.

Remak
Coalition pilots conducted a show of force to deter possible enemy activity. The show of force was declared successful when the no enemy action was noted.

Air Operations in Iraq:

Baghdad
Air Force F-16C pilots provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces convoy stopped due to an improvised explosive device. The pilots conducted a show of force to deter enemy fire on the convoy and to help locate and capture the enemy IED triggerman. The show of force was deemed successful when no enemy action was reported.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 65
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 18

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 30
Sorties flown in Iraq: 28
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: NONE
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On January 23
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 2 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 45
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.5 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 212

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 165
Short tons of delivered cargo: 978
Passengers: nearly 4,100
Airdropped cargo: nearly 155,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

US Airpower Summary, Jan. 20, 2010

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 20, 2010 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Jan. 19, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Chahar Bagh
An Air Force MQ-9A Reaper operator provided armed overwatch and reconnaissance for friendly ground forces. The pilot observed suspicious activity in the vicinity of friendly forces and requested confirmation of position coordinates. Ground forces confirmed the coordinates and identified the personnel as an enemy with a weapon. After receiving permission to eliminate the threat to friendly forces, the operator engaged using a missile. The weapon was successfully destroyed.

Shurakian
An Air Force MQ-9A Reaper operator provided armed overwatch and reconnaissance for friendly forces. The pilot was tasked to follow a suspicious person in the vicinity of a recent improvised explosive device detonation. When friendly forces attempted to apprehend the person for questioning, he hid in a mosque and then ran from friendly forces. The Reaper pilot observed the person enter a field and attempt to arm an IED before friendly ground forces arrived. Ground forces confirmed the coordinates and after receiving permission to eliminate the threat to friendly forces, the operators engaged using a missile. The target was successfully eliminated.

Morghab
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews provided armed overwatch for friendly forces. Friendly forces reported a large group of enemy personnel gathered in close proximity to their position. Once coordinates for the enemy position and the suspicious personnel were received, the aircrew released precision-guided munitions and made numerous strafing runs against the target, which eliminated the threat. No further enemy action was noted.

Lashkar Gah
Pilots flying U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier aircraft provided armed reconnaissance for friendly forces. The pilots conducted a show of force, with flares expended, over an area as a reminder that airpower was overhead. The show of force was declared successful when no enemy action was noted.

Surkhabad
Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots conducted a show of force as directed by ground forces. The show of force, with flares released, was declared successful y ground control.

Kandahar
Coalition pilots provided armed overwatch for a friendly-forces convoy. The pilots were also tasked to perform surveillance to dectect insurgents preparing for an indirect-fire attack. Coalition pilots conducted a show of force to deter enemy action in the area. The show of force was declared successful and the pilots resumed convoy-escort duties.

Air Operations in Iraq:

There was no significant action to report today.

Air Power Statistics:

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 80
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 14

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 32
Sorties flown in Iraq: 28
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: 2(NAVY)
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

On January 18
Medical Evacuation:
Air Force HH-60 aircrews and Pararescue Airmen transported 7 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 43
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.9 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 209

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 135
Short tons of delivered cargo: 621
Passengers: nearly 2,600
Airdropped cargo: nearly 145,000 pounds

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

Photo Essay: Christmas Warships 2009

USS Russell (DDG 59). (U.S. Navy photo.)

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy Photo By Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Brian L. Short.)

Commander, Navy Region Hawaii barge. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James E. Foehl.)

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac. )

USS Russell (DDG 59). (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Theresa Donnelly.)

USS Lassen and USS McCampbell. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer Bryan Reckard.)

The guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark A. Leonesio.)

The guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark A. Leonesio.)

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Reckard.)

USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter D. Lawlor.)

USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), USS Stethem (DDG 63), and USS Howard (DDG 83). (U.S. Navy photo by Geoffrey Patrick.)

USS Elliot (DD 967), USS Olendorf (DD 972), USS Fitzgerald (DD 62), and the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Geoffrey Patrick.)

USS Olendorf (DD-972). (U.S. Navy photo by Geoffrey Patrick.)

USS Pinckney (DDG 91). (U.S. Navy Photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Jo A. Wilbourn Sims.)

USS Crommelin (FFG 37). (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Ryan C. McGinley.)

USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Zack Baddorf.)

USS Milius (DDG 69). (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Zack Baddorf .)

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). (U.S. Navy photograph by Photographer's Mate Airman Thomas J. Holt.)

USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Zack Baddorf.)

USS Russell (DDG 59). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist James E. Foehl.)

The forward hangar bay tunnel aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Arturo Chavez.)

USS Russell (DDG 59). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist James E. Foehl.)

USS Russell (DDG 59). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist James E. Foehl.)

USS Chosin (CG 65). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist James E. Foehl.)

The Sea Wolf-class attack submarine USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23). (U.S. Navy photo by Master Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jerry McLain.)

The guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) displays a spectacle of holiday lights during the 2008 Afloat Holiday Lighting Contest on board Naval Station Pearl Harbor Dec. 18, 2008. Hawaii area commanders toured the harbor and judged ships based on best lighting scheme, most creative display and energy conservation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Hight.)

Santa waives to friends and family of the crew of the Los Angeles class submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) as the submarine returns home to Submarine Base New London in time for the holidays. Providence is returning from a scheduled six-month deployment, which included a stop at the North Pole in July to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first submarine polar transit, completed by USS Nautilus (SSN 571) in 1958. (U.S. Navy photo by John Narewski.)

NOTE: Host for hi-res imagery is offline.

More Military Imagery on THE TENSION

Navy Takes Delivery of 2nd Littoral Combat Ship, Future USS Independence

The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is a key element of the Navy's plan to address asymmetric threats. Intended to operate in coastal areas of the globe, the ship will be fast, highly maneuverable and geared to supporting mine detection/elimination, anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare, particularly against small surface craft. (Video courtesy Jason Kello, General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

GULF OF MEXICO (File photo, July 12, 2009) The littoral combat ship Independence (LCS 2) underway during builder's trials. Builder's trials are the first opportunity for the shipbuilder and the U.S. Navy to operate the ship underway, and provide an opportunity to test and correct issues before acceptance trials. (Photo courtesy Dennis Griggs General Dynamics.)

Focus on Defense:

WASHINGTON, Dec. 22, 2009 -- The Navy officially accepted delivery of the future USS Independence (LCS 2) Dec. 18 during a short ceremony in Mobile, Ala. Independence is the second littoral combat ship delivered to the Navy, and the first LCS of the General Dynamics variant. LCS is a new breed of U.S. Navy warship with versatile warfighting capabilities, capable of open-ocean operation, but optimized for littoral, or coastal, missions.

"Today marks a critical milestone in the life of the LCS 2," said Rear Adm. James Murdoch, the LCS program manager in the Navy's Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. "The Navy and our industry partners have worked diligently to deliver a much-needed capability."

Prior to delivery, the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) conducted Acceptance Trials aboard LCS 2 on Nov. 13-19, and found the ship's propulsion plant, sea-keeping and self-defense performance to be "commendable," and recommended that the chief of naval operations authorize delivery of the ship following the correction or waiver of cited material deficiencies.

Between now and sail away in February 2010, the contractor will correct most of the trial cards received during trials. Any remaining cards will be corrected during scheduled post-delivery maintenance availabilities including the post-shakedown availability scheduled for completion in 2011.

Delivery is the last shipbuilding milestone before commissioning, scheduled for Jan. 16 in Mobile, Ala.

The LCS class is designed from the keel up to deliver efficient capability, capacity, and flexibility to the warfighter. Independence, a high-speed aluminum trimaran, is designed to defeat asymmetric "anti-access" threats such as mines, quiet diesel submarines and fast surface craft. The 417-foot Independence will be outfitted with reconfigurable payloads, called mission packages, which can be changed out quickly. These mission packages focus on three mission areas: mine counter measures, surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare.

PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships and has delivered eight major surface ships to the fleet since the beginning of 2009. PEO Ships is working in conjunction with its industry partners to achieve steady production for all programs to increase production efficiencies and leverage cost savings. Delivering high-quality war fighting assets ¯ while balancing affordability and capability ¯ is key to supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy and building the Navy's 313-ship force structure. PEO Ships is committed to delivering quality ships at an affordable price.

(Report from a Team Ships Public Affairs news release.)

Recent Military Imagery on THE TENSION

National Guard Responds to Record Snowfall in Northeast

Virginia National Guard Soldiers from the Charlottesville-based Company C, 429th Brigade Support Battalion, 116th Brigade Combat Team load 100 blankets provided by the Dillwyn Correctional Center and transported them a shelter in Nelson County, Dec. 19, 2009. The Virginia National Guard has Soldiers on state active duty in order to assist state and local agencies in response to severe winter weather across the state. (National Guard photo by Maj. Cotton Puryear, Virginia National Guard.)

On the Home Front:

ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 21, 2009 -- National Guardsmen in seven states were called to duty over the weekend after a record snowfall blanketed the Northeast.

More than 1,200 Guardsmen in Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Delaware, the District of Columbia and North Carolina responded to requests for road clearance, evacuation and other related missions.

In Virginia, about 400 Guardsmen were initially mobilized, but Gov. Tim Kaine authorized another 600 Soldiers on Dec. 20. According to a press release from the state, more than 750 Soldiers and Airmen were expected to be on duty throughout the state by the afternoon of Dec. 20.

"The Virginia National Guard continues to assist state and local agencies across the commonwealth with rescuing stranded motorists, transporting critical supplies, assisting with sheltering operations and transporting patients and health care professionals," said Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert B. Newman, the adjutant general of Virginia.

Newman explained that the Virginia Guard receives missions through the state Department of Emergency Management based on requests from local emergency response organizations. Any citizens, who feel they need support from the Guard, should make their request through their local first responders, not directly to the Guard.

On Dec. 20, soldiers from the 116th Brigade Combat Team, based in Staunton, Va., helped state police wake stranded motorists along I-81 in an effort to get traffic moving, while Airmen from the 203rd Rapid Engineers Deployable Heavy Operations Repair Squadron Engineers, or RED HORSE, Civil Engineering Squadron, based in Virginia Beach, Va., were scheduled to transport cots to a shelter in Wise County. Other missions included aerial reconnaissance, transporting food, water, blankets and other supplies, transporting stranded motorists and health care professionals and sheltering operations.

In West Virginia, 235 Guardsmen operating nine wreckers and two graders were used to clear the West Virginia Turnpike on Dec. 19. "They had plows moving down the toll road as well as trucks that could move vehicles stuck in the middle of the road out of the way to get things moving," Air Force Lt. Col. Mike Cadle, the public affairs officer for the West Virginia Guard, told local news outlets.

On Dec. 20, the Guard continued "wellness checks" throughout the state. "We have Humvees out in many of those effected communities," Cadle said. "And those Humvees have food and water. We're traversing some of the more rural, hard to get to areas.

Cadle said the West Virginia Guard gets its missions from the state's Office of Emergency Services, and their job isn't done until the governor releases them.
"We'll continue pressing," he said. "We don't have a timeline. We're going to be working until the county directors and the state officials tell us that we're finished."
In Kentucky, 170 Guardsmen were deployed to remove fallen trees from roads and help with evacuations in the eastern areas of the commonwealth. Thirteen counties in southeastern Kentucky had declared a state of emergency as of Dec. 20.

Army Brig. Gen. John Heltzel, deputy commander of the Kentucky National Guard, told local news outlets that about 87,000 homes were without power as of noon on Dec. 20. The Public Service Commission listed power outages in 26 counties, primarily in Eastern Kentucky.

Heltzel said the main power lines are up, but wires feeding power into many residential areas are down. He expects power to be restored to half the affected area by Wednesday, with the rest done by Sunday.

"We hope to make everybody happy and beat that," he said.

In Maryland, more than 140 Guardsmen were on duty over the weekend, but that number dropped to 19 today. About 46 Humvees and five ambulances were used throughout the state. A state of emergency was declared in the state.

"The majority of the requests we received during the snowstorm were to support local and state law enforcement agencies," said Army Brig. Gen. James A. Adkins, the adjutant general of Maryland. "Use of our Humvees ensured that first responders were able to get where they needed to go to provide critical services to the citizens of Maryland."

In Delaware, 61 Guardsmen operating 15 Humvees, five light medium tactical vehicles and four wreckers were on duty throughout the state to respond to emergency transportation and rescue requests. A state of emergency was declared in New Castle and Kent counties.

"People are strongly advised to stay off the roads in Kent and New Castle counties," Gov. Jack Markell told local news outlets. "Our state agencies have been working together to prepare for and combat the effects of this storm. Remaining off the roads helps them in this effort and is important to public safety."

Dubbed Operation Arctic Endeavor II, Delaware Guard officials said they are prepared to provide special needs sheltering, transportation support using highly mobile multi-wheeled vehicles and LMTVs, road clearing support and any other support as required by the Delaware Emergency Management Agency.

The Delaware Guard has also prepared three task forces pre-positioned at four Emergency Operation Centers throughout the state, Guard officials said. Task Force New Castle has locations in Belvedere and Wilmington, Task Force Sussex is in Georgetown and Task Force Kent is in Smyrna. Each EOC is staffed with Humvees, an LMTV, a large tow truck and two Guardsmen per vehicle.

In the District of Columbia, 27 Guardsmen and 10 Humvees are standing by to provide transportation support. A state of emergency has been declared in the district.
In North Carolina, 24 Guardsmen were called in Saturday morning to help the North Carolina Highway Patrol dig out and remove abandoned cars from the highway.

(Report by Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, National Guard Bureau.)

US Airpower Summary, Dec. 21, 2009

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 21, 2009 -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations, Dec. 20, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials.

Air Operations in Afghanistan:

Chahar Bagh
Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft flew armed overwatch for friendly forces and coalition forces. Both forces reported receiving enemy fire and requested air support. The aircraft confirmed they had observed the point of origin for the enemy fire and engaged with strafing runs that eliminated the enemy fire.

Sheykhabad
Coalition aircraft provided armed overwatch and surveillance for friendly forces. When a show of force was requested, the aircraft successfully performed the show of force.

Sangin
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft provided armed overwatch, reconnaissance and surveillance for a friendly forces convoy and fighting position. A show of force was performed when the friendly fighting position reported taking mortar fire. The show of force was considered successful when no further enemy action was noted.

Lashkar Gah
F-15E aircraft provided armed overwatch for a coalition forces patrol. A show of force was performed to ensure no enemy action took place around the coalition patrol. The show of force was considered successful when no enemy action was noted.

Air Operations in Iraq:

No significant action to report in the last 24 hours.

Air Power Statistics:

Air Mobility:
U.S. Air Force airlift sorties: 160
Short tons of delivered cargo: 614
Passengers: nearly 4,700
Airdropped cargo: nearly 210,000 pounds

Close Air Support:
Sorties flown to support ISAF & Afghan security forces: 74
Sorties flown to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM: 18

Surveillance & Reconnaissance:
Sorties flown in Afghanistan: 30
Sorties flown in Iraq: 26
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Afghanistan: 2 (USN)
Tactical reconnaissance sorties flown in Iraq: 2 (USAF)

Medical Evacuation:
On Dec. 19, Air Force HH-60 aircrew and Pararescue Airmen transported 2 patients

Aerial Refueling:
Sorties flown: 34
Fuel delivered: nearly 2.1 million pounds
Aircraft refueled: 125

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)