Posted on 01/25/2006 5:48:45 PM PST by SandRat
AL ASAD, Iraq (Jan. 25, 2006) -- The Banshees of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 1 are preparing to return home after six months of duty in support of Operation Iraq Freedom at Al Asad, Iraq.
The EA-6B Prowler squadron based at Marine Corp Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., recently completed its mission of electronic warfare in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force and was relieved by VMAQ-2. The Banshees logged more than 800 flight missions, or sorties, which added up to more than 3,000 flight hours.
"This was a very successful deployment for us," said Maj. John D. Thurman, an electronic countermeasures officer and Grand Prairie, Texas, native. "We got a lot of flight hours and it was gratifying because we know we made a contribution to the overall effort."
The Banshees deployed to the Al Anbar province with high-tech weapons to battle insurgents. The EA-6B employs nonkinetic firepower to protect Marines and Soldiers on the ground. While much of the unit's mission is classified, the Prowler attacks by disrupting communications or disables the enemy's capabilities using specialized equipment instead of engaging enemy targets with bombs or rockets.
"It was an awe-inspiring experience," said Cpl. Anthony Potts, an electronic countermeasures systems technician and Santa Maria, Calif., native. "This is everything we wanted to do when we became Marines. We are putting our technical skills and physical abilities to use against an enemy and in support of our ground forces."
The Banshees, who supported OIF from Prince Sultan Air Base during 2003, were only the second Prowler squadron to operate from Al Asad. They also expanded their support to include detachments of carrier-based squadrons Navy Electronic Warfare Squadrons 135 and 141. Marines from VMAQ-1 not only arranged billeting, transportation and working spaces for the Sailors, they provided training, tools and maintenance assistance for the detachments.
"Due to our support, Navy and Marine Corps Prowlers were able to conduct more sorties, which is beneficial to our guys on the ground," Thurman said. "Our logistical and maintenance support for them enhanced the overall operational success and that is why it was important."
The squadron supported 15 major operations in Iraq and watched from the skies as Iraqis made history on the ground with a referendum vote during October and parliamentary elections during December. The deployment was a first for many of the Banshees and most took advantage of the opportunities to excel, Thurman said.
"One of the real big positives from this deployment is the experience gained by young aircrew members," Thurman said. "Not only their flight hours, but working in a joint environment and being a part of the decision-making process. That kind of experience is not easily gained."
The deployment presented obstacles and opportunities to the aircraft maintainers as well. The Banshee maintainers racked up more 41,000 maintenance man hours and performed 20 engine installations during the deployment.
"I learned a lot and I think many other Marines did the same," said Cpl. Norberto A. Vela, a seat mechanic and Mission, Texas, native. "The pace was a lot faster, there were more flights and we had to replace engines more than we were used to in Cherry Point. I think the junior Marines responded to the environment and workload very well."
Overcoming obstacles big and small was a theme for the Banshees throughout the deployment, Potts said.
"Sometimes it's the little stuff, like being away from home or being tired, and sometimes you have bigger things to worry about like incoming fire or bad weather," Potts said. "But, what I think makes our squadron special is that we went above and beyond what was expected, day in and day out. From privates to the commanding officer, everybody worked hard. I think that is a testament to the strength of the squadron."
After a well-deserved break with families at home, Thurman said the Banshees will return to their tasks and prepare for whatever missions comes their way next.
"We will be increasing our combat readiness for future contingencies," Thurman said. "Preparation is key in our role and you never know what mission might be ahead of us. We will enjoy some time off, reflect on the things we accomplished out here and move forward."
Potts said accomplishing the mission meant putting work in front of self, but that is one virtue all Marines engaged in OIF share.
"It was tough, but work keeps you focused," Potts said. "Being a part of the mission is all the job satisfaction we need. We all play a part in keeping the Marine Corps running. We don't let anything get in the way of that. Mission accomplishment is what all of us are about."
Banshee's (EA-6B Prowler)Howl!
The US Marine Corp is GREAT!!!
VAQ-140 Patriots plankowner here. The EA-6B capabilities were awesome 20 years ago and I'll bet that they are 100 times better in the digital age.
BTTT
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
