Vermont Air National Guard deploys to Europe
April 29, 2022 | By Maj. Meghan Smith Click photos to enlarge and view captions.
SOUTH BURLINGTON – The Vermont Air National Guard members of the 158th Fighter Wing deployed to Europe early Friday morning to support NATO’s air policing mission.
"We are proud to send our Airmen to support the collective defense of our allies and partners," said Army Maj. Gen. Greg Knight, the adjutant general of Vermont. "This deployment demonstrates some of the strategic capabilities the Vermont Air National Guard can provide to the nation when needed."
The deployment is a standard U.S. rotation in the European Area of Operations and part of the U.S. commitment to training and interoperability with European allies.
The Vermont personnel departed before dawn Friday from South Burlington following a farewell ceremony Thursday evening with family and Vermont state officials.
“There are not words to tell you how immensely proud I am of our Vermont Air National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, Vermont Adjutant General. “For our families and employers, I offer sincere thanks for your support. We simply couldn’t do what we do without you.”
Gov. Phil Scott and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders attended and spoke at the ceremony thanking the airmen and families for their service to the state and nation.
During the ceremony, Knight presented a Green Mountain Boy battle flag to two deploying airmen. The flag is used as the regimental flag of the Vermont National Guard and accompanies units on missions as a symbol of support from the adjutant general to the unit on its mission.
“Like many other times throughout our proud Green Mountain Boy history, it is when we’re needed most that we are at our best – when you are at your best,” said Col. David Shevchik, commander, 158th Fighter Wing. “That time again is right now. I want to thank you and your families for all that you’ve already done up to this point and for what you’re about to do. We’re extremely proud of you.”
During the ceremony, members of the American Legion presented a Blue Star banner to a family member of a deploying airman. Families display these banners when a loved one is serving overseas.
“Know that the Blue Star banner represents your loved one, but also it represents the service of your household,” Shevchik said. “The support and strength of your family members and the pride that goes along with it.”
This short-term deployment is conducted in coordination with host nations and NATO military authorities. The unit’s participation is part of U.S. military measures to increase readiness and enhance NATOs collective defense during this period of uncertainty.
“Being called upon only four months out of conversion to an operational F-35 fighter wing is a testament to our team, their professionalism, commitment and proven capabilities," Shevchik said. “The Green Mountain Boys are ready and proud to answer this call, and we're grateful for the support of our families, employers and communities.”
Maj. Meghan Smith is a public affairs officer with the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard.