451st EOG activates new ISR unit on Kandahar

The MC-12 Liberty aircraft, assigned to the 361st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, is a manned, special-mission turboprop aircraft designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The 361st ERS was activated May 1 at Kandahar Airfield. Lt. Col. Darren Halford is the first commander of the new unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Nancy Hooks/Released)

451st EOG activates new ISR unit on Kandahar

Published May 4, 2010
By Tech. Sgt. Renni Thornton
451st Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan -- Members of the 361st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron stood proud during a squadron activation ceremony May 1 on Kandahar Airfield.

Col. John A. Cherrey, commander, 451st Expeditionary Operations Group, hosted the ceremony and extended his thanks to the more than 80-member unit.

"Thanks to all of you for your time and effort over the next few months. This is one of those squadrons that has a fairly unique history. It started in 1943 in World War II when the members of the unit flew B-17s and B-24s. Later, they were reactivated during Vietnam when they flew EC-47s and did a lot of work with a special operations wing back then."

"In 2002, the unit was reactivated again, flying other aircraft. But this is not about the aircraft--it's about you, the members. It is about everything you all contribute--from the maintenance people on the ground to the pilots and commanding officers. I'm really impressed with the capabilities within the squadron. You couldn't have a better squadron commander with Colonel Halford. He has an extensive background and is about as cerebral as they come. I am confident he is a great fit for this unit," said Colonel Cherrey.

Colonel Cherrey passed the guidon, symbolizing the assumption of command.
The commander of the newly-activated squadron, Lt. Col. Darren Halford, shared his enthusiasm with the men and women of the unit.

"I am honored and humbled by the tremendous opportunity to command the Air Force's newest squadron employing the MC-12 and more importantly, to command such an outstanding group of Airmen. Each day I am impressed by your efforts and ingenuity.
This is a tremendous team perfectly suited for the challenges ahead," said Lt. Col. Halford.

"The MC-12 is a critical capability, fielded at a critical time. Your actions will drastically improve joint and combined counterinsurgency capabilities, assist Afghanistan with defeating the insurgency, and ultimately save American and coalition lives."