14th EFS keep enemy ground forces in check

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Charles Toplikar
  • 14th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron commander
BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq - --  We spent  the week of Feb. 20-26 helping to stop the flow of weapons across borders after a 10-day dry spell.

While it is more motivating for everyone to employ ordnance rather than staring through the advanced targeting pod, we all know that our ground forces are enjoying success and security whenever we are serving as their eyes in the sky.

One issue of concern for some of the fighter pilots' families and friends might be the number of helicopters shot down over the past month or so. It is a fact that helicopters are being shot down more frequently than ever in this theater. Whether due to more advanced weaponry or tactics or both, please remember F-16s are faster and more maneuverable.

It is similar to dodge ball in that, if  you are fast and agile and play on the back line, your opponent will have to be very lucky to hit you, even with a strong and accurate arm. The difference here is that we have a very strong and accurate arm and can therefore play well from that back line. We only go to the front line (i.e. low altitude) when absolutely necessary and even then we remain very fast and unpredictable to the enemy.

I would like to relate a story that highlights the current impact of our F-16 air power in Iraq.

Early in the week one of my fellow commanders told me of his brother-in-law, a Soldier, whose unit came under a complex enemy attack. They were taken by surprise when an improvised explosive ordnance initiated the attack, and were pinned down by enemy fire with several of their Soldiers wounded. 

Although Army helicopters were providing cover and suppressive fire, he said it wasn't until an F-16 made a show-of-force pass that they were able to rally for a victory. He said it was that F-16 that gave them the confidence that they were not alone in the fight and would therefore be alright.

As always, thanks for your support and sacrifice on the home front. God bless you and the United States of America.