BOISE, ID — More than 300 members of the Idaho Air National Guard’s 124th Fighter Wing have deployed to Southwest Asia in support of U.S. Central Command operations. The deployment, which began Saturday, is expected to last approximately 180 days.
The group includes A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, along with pilots, maintenance crews, and various support personnel. The mission involves combat and peacekeeping roles within the region.
Deployment Details and Preparations
According to Lt. Col. Geoffrey Bachman, an A-10 pilot with the Idaho Air National Guard, the unit has spent the past two years preparing for this mission. Training included travel to other U.S. bases to ensure full readiness. This marks Bachman’s sixth deployment.
“We’ve been working towards this for probably about the past two years,” Bachman said. “People are excited. They’re ready.”
Bachman also emphasized the essential role of support staff, stating that the success of the mission relies on teams responsible for fueling, loading, and maintaining the aircraft.
Leadership and Remarks
Idaho Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke addressed the airmen prior to their departure, offering words of support and appreciation for their service.
Second Lt. Ryan Ponce, who is deploying for the second time, acknowledged the personal sacrifices involved. “It’s definitely a big commitment, leaving the family behind,” Ponce said, thanking both the deploying airmen and the families remaining at home.
Col. Ryan W. Richardson, the Wing Commander of the 124th Fighter Wing, will remain in Idaho during the deployment. He expressed confidence in the unit’s readiness, noting that this mission includes several first-time deployers.
“The energy is very high because we’re going to go out and do what we’re trained to do,” Richardson said. “Every time we’re called upon, we go, and we meet the nation’s needs.”
The 124th Fighter Wing operates the A-10 Thunderbolt IIs flown by the 190th Fighter Squadron. This deployment continues the Idaho Air National Guard’s role in supporting U.S. defense and stability operations abroad.
