The Vermont Air National Guard has more than 600 airmen deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom, but those left behind opened their doors—for the sixth time—to high school students for the 2006 SkillsUSA Competition. The Burlington ANG unit invited 500 students to show off the leadership, health occupational, and trade skills they learn at school technical centers. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for the wing to give back to a community that has embraced this unit for over 60 years,” said Col. Brad Jensen, vice commander of the 158th Fighter Wing.
With a shrinking fleet and growing operational demand, Air Force Special Operations Command sees the new OA-1K combat scout aircraft as key to a “new era,” officials say.