300 Duluth Airmen Set to Deploy to South Korea

The Minnesota Air National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing is set to deploy twelve F-16’s and 300 Airmen to South Korea in April. 

The Duluth-based Airmen will head to Osan Air Base, about 40 miles south of Seoul, South Korea beginning the week of April 10. 

The Minnesota Air National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing is deploying fighter aircraft to the region in order to provide U.S .Pacific Command and Pacific Air Forces with Theater Security Packages, which help maintain a deterrent against threats to regional security and stability.  

According to Col. Jon Safstrom, 148th Fighter Wing Commander, the Airmen of the 148th are ready and well-trained for this deployment.   “The Bulldogs are both prepared and excited to help America fulfill its charge in the Asia-Pacific Theater of operations.   Movement of U.S. Air Force Theater Support Packages into the region has been a routine and integral part of U.S. Pacific Command’s force posture since March 2004.” 

“It’s time to deploy and our leadership is ready,” said Brig. Gen. Sandy Best, Minnesota Air National Guard Chief of Staff. “Our mission is to support our nation’s continued commitment to regional stability and security around the world.  Our Airmen are always ready and well-trained to engage in any state or federal mission when called.”

More information will be released at a news conference Friday morning.