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'Triple Nickel' arrives at Bagram Airfield

April 28, 2015 (by SSgt. Whitney Amstutz) - Airmen assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron, known as the "Triple Nickel," from Aviano Air Base, Italy, arrived here April 27 in support of operations Freedom's Sentinel and Resolute Support.

Maj. Matthew Eldredge, 555th FS pilot, prepares to disembark F-16C block 40 #89-2137 at Bagram Air Field on April 27th, 2015. Members of the Triple Nickel are deployed in support of Operations Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support and are in theater to replace the 4th FS from Hill AFB. [USAF photo by SSgt. Whitney Amstutz]

During their six-month tenure at Bagram Airfield members of the Triple Nickel will assume the responsibility of providing over-watch and close-air-support for ground units in Afghanistan.

First and foremost, we're here to protect the guys on the ground" said Lt. Col. Byron Pompa, 555th FS commander. Our guys couldn't be happier to be here. We've prepared for the last six months to a year for this moment and our young guys are chomping at the bit to get in there and see some action.

The 555th FS is taking the reins from the Airmen of the 4th Fighter Squadron from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, following their six month rotation to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The mission of the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing is to provide decisive combat air power in support of efforts to ensure a sovereign and stable Afghanistan that isn't a safe haven for international terrorists.


Courtesy of 455th Air Expeditionary Wing

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