ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Approximately 150 Airmen and four B-1B Lancers assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing deployed to Andersen AFB, Guam, as the Bomber Task Force, in an effort to conduct missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
During this time, the 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron participated in Valiant Shield on repeated occasions. The B-1B Lancer and the aircrew integrated and familiarized themselves with the Joint All-Domain Command Operations concept for application in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.
“Joint integration is always an amazing experience for our aircrews,” said Lt. Col. Mike Taylor, 34th EBS commander. “It’s a testament to everyone we have here that make the mission happen. Our maintenance team is incredible, they consistently provide us with B-1s that are ready for anything.”
Valiant Shield is a biennial, U.S.-only, joint field training exercise with a focus on integration between U.S. forces in relation to current operational plans.
“The training is vital, especially being deployed out here, having a small and flexible footprint,” Taylor explained. “Every mission we stand to learn a little bit more and get even stronger as a joint force.”
The deployed squadron flew seven sorties for Valiant Shield, sharpening their proficiency in a joint environment.
These exercises and missions showcase the U.S. military’s commitment to preserving and maintaining regional stability and assisting in developing a stable future for tomorrow.
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For more information, contact the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs Office at 605-385-5056 or via email at: 28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil.