Spangdahlem Launches Final A-10 Sortie

The 81st Fighter Squadron at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, launched its final A-10 sortie as the unit gears for inactivation next month. Three of the unit’s A-10s took off on May 14 on a mission to train with upgraded helmets featuring a mounted cueing system, according to Spang’s release from that day. “It’s a difficult day, not for just the people in this squadron, but for anyone who’s ever served with the 81st,” said Lt. Col. Clinton Eichelberger, squadron commander. “Today marks the day when we move forward. The people and aircraft are moving on to other units where they will continue to serve in today’s theater of operations.” Spang’s A-10s are relocating to Moody AFB, Ga., with the last of them slated to leave Germany on May 17, states the release. The squadron’s inactivation is the result of the Fiscal 2013 force structure changes that Congress approved for the Air Force. (Spangdahlem report by SSgt. Daryl Knee)