Approximately 1,100 Airmen have been tasked to deploy from D-M during the first three months of 2015, more than twice the normal amount.

Typically, the base would have around 500 Airmen deployed at any given time which makes this deployment a significant increase.

This deployment includes Airmen from the 563rd Rescue Group, 55th Electronic Combat Group, 355th Mission Support Group and the 354th Fighter Squadron, including 12 A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft. The A-10s, crews, and support personnel are part of a Theater Security Package supporting Operation Atlantic Resolve out of Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, as announced by U.S. European Command today. Other personnel will deploy to a variety of other locations in support of ongoing U.S. military operations.

“My focus areas as the commander have been providing a combat ready force, developing Airmen, caring for our families and optimizing our resources. Now that so many of our warriors are deploying, I will be shifting my weight of effort to caring for our families and ensuring they receive the support they need. I also want to thank the Tucson community for providing such a supportive environment for our service members and of their families while they are called away,” said Colonel James Meger, 355th Fighter Wing commander.