Security Forces mobilization

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. John Hughel
  • 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
PORTLAND, Ore. - --  The Oregon Air National Guard' s 142nd Security Forces Squadron held a mobilization ceremony today at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Ore., as approximately 30 Airmen will deploy to support Operation Enduring Freedom.

The 142nd SFS will participate in pre-mobilization training at Elgin Air Force Base, Fla., in Jan. of 2013, before they are scheduled to deploy, and will spend six months in Qatar supporting U.S. Central Command missions.

"The 142nd Security Force Squadron is and exceptional and professional organization," said Oregon Adjutant General Raymond F. Rees.

The 142nd Security Forces Squadron provides security and base protection as part of the 142nd Fighter Wing, located at the Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore.

Many family members and civilian employers of the deploying Airmen were also in attendance for the formal mobilization ceremony.

Mr. Cameron Smith, who represented Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber accepted the 142nd SFS guidon and presented the deploying members with the Oregon State Flag to proudly fly at their deployment location.

"Oregon Guardsmen represent the best of our communities," said Smith.

Smith noted that the essential security for air as well as ground assets are part of the critical role the 142nd SFS will provide during their deployment mission.

"I want to particularly recognize the families of these members deploying and Oregon will rally to support you," he said.

The unit previously deployed to the Middle East in 2009 when 32 Airmen mobilized to Kirkuk, Iraq for six months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

To date more than 600 members of the Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Fighter Wing Redhawks, have deployed across the globe since September 11th of 2001. Most of these members are traditional guardsmen that leave full time jobs or school to serve in harm's way in Afghanistan or other missions that their country and Air Force need them.