History Making Salute

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Airmen from the 387th Air Expeditionary Group salute the U.S. flag during a joint flag raising ceremony with the host nation's Air Force on April 22, 2008, at an air base in the Persian Gulf Region. The ceremony commemorated the partnership between the two countries and the one-year-mark since the group stood up operations. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Ephane Dubose)

'Tiger Tails' commemorate group's first year of service

Published May 8, 2008
By Capt. Ephane Dubose
387th Air Expeditionary Group

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- The Airmen of the 387th Air Expeditionary Group commemorated their first year since the group was activated during an April 22, 2008, joint flag raising ceremony with the host nation's Air Force at an air base in the Persian Gulf Region.

The 387th AEG provides base operation support integration for itself and five tenant units at one of U.S. Central Command's busiest aerial ports.

"The year has seen many marked improvements in the operating environment at the air base with a plan for many more to come," said Col. Michael Haefner, the commander of the 387th AEG. "Among the enhancements were newly painted hangars, new office trailers to fully house the staff, and a variety of other quality of life initiatives. Another notable achievement for the group is when the Air Force heraldry office officially approved our "Tiger Tail" insignia for the group in January."

Colonel Haefner assumed command in August 2007 and is also the senior U.S. military representative on the installation coordinating efforts with the host nation's military and civil aviation leaders.