DC Air National Guard
Issue: July 2004
 The 113th Wing operates three aircraft: the C-40, C-22 and F-16, seen here above the District of Columbia.
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"Numerous successful and high profile missions contributed to the award," said Master Sgt. Monica Brown, Wing executive assistant.
The award reflects the commitment and outstanding performance of the Guard members in both military and civilian capacities. Members contributed to the award through maintenance, civilian professions, logistics, volunteerism, security forces and flying.
During Operation Iraqi Freedom, a volunteer force of 300 unit members mobilized and deployed to a location in Southwest Asia while simultaneously maintaining the Operation Noble Eagle air sovereignty mission at home.
"This is the first time an Air National Guard fighter unit maintained a continuous alert at a home station," said retired Col. Michael Redman, former 113th Wing commander.
Contributing significantly to the award, during OIF, the 121st Fighter Squadron, a component of the 410th Air Expeditionary Wing, flew 1,345 flight hours in support of the operation, said Master Sgt. Jeffrey A. Thacker, 113th Equipment Maintenance Flight, a munitions specialist.
Additionally, while evading enemy anti-aircraft artillery and surface to air missiles, the 121st FS pilots carried out their primary mission of offensive counter-tactical ballistic missile operations, as well as, support for coalition special forces, non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance without a single loss or casualty, said Redman.
The selection committee also recognized DC Air National Guard's ability to contribute and adapt to the Total Force concept.
"The 113 LG aircraft maintainers, composed of ground crews, technicians and managers serving with the 410 AEW, contributed to the overwhelming successful achievement of flying 1,962 aircraft sorties with no maintenance non-deliveries (the inability to launch because of mechanical problems)," said Chief Master Sgt. William Jones, 113th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, superintendent.
In another initiative, the 113th Security Forces Squadron deployed a team to Southwest Asia in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. They also deployed a team to Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, to provide perimeter defense and force protection.
Additionally, the113th Logistics Squadron’s transportation flight deployed a 5-person team to Prince Sultan to conduct vehicle operations within Saudi Arabia in support of OEF; however, members of this volunteer team eventually conducted operations across Iraq.
"The 113th Wing was recognized for many sustained exceptional performances and practices resulting from the Unit Compliance Inspection," said Redman.
"Successfully converting from C-22 to C-40C passenger airlift aircraft contributed greatly as well," said C-40C pilot Capt. Suzanne Schultz of the 201st Airlift Squadron. "The 201st AS became operational in the new aircraft a full year earlier than planned, and initial operation capability achieved within two weeks of receiving the new aircraft."
The squadron has 57 accident-free flying years. They now have more than 169,520 total accident free flying hours since the unit's activation in 1946.
"The D.C. Air National Guard, also known as ‘The Capital Guardians,' is one of Andrews’ premier units," said Sgt. Powell. "The record setting accomplishment of receiving its 11th consecutive Outstanding Unit Award has demonstrated that the 113th Wing is truly exceptional."
This article can be found online at: http://www.ngb.army.mil/onguard/33/07/article.asp?aid=1358
