DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Two C-130J Super Hercules’ carrying 16 aircrew members assigned to the 39th and 40th Airlift Squadrons returned to Dyess, Nov. 21, after a four month deployment.
While deployed to Africa and Germany, the aircrews accomplished a number of missions ranging from supply drops to combat airlifts supporting U. S. Africa Command and U.S. European Command.
“They conducted missions supporting Horn of Africa operations by landing at small landing zones and conducting airdrops. They also flew numerous missions in Europe to help supplement EUCOM’s airlift assets,” said Capt. Kirk Habrun, 39th AS director of operations.
Dyess aircrews have a rotational deployment schedule, which provides combat-delivery capabilities through tactical airlift and airdrop operations as well as supporting global humanitarian efforts.
The aircrew arrived home only a few days before Thanksgiving to make the reunion even more special. Carrying signs, the aircrew’s families waited patiently for their loved ones return.
“It’s great to be able to see these families reunite,” Habrun said. “It’s hard being away for months on end and it’s always a relief to finally be home. I’m happy for all of them and hope they enjoy their time with their family.”