U.S. Air Forces in Europe
U.S. Air Forces Africa
September 25, 2014
Lt. Col. Harman takes command of Aviation Detachment in Poland
By Airman 1st Class Kyle Gese
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Lask Air Base, Poland: U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jack Harman took command of Aviation Detachment 1, 52nd Operations Group at Lask Air Base, Poland, from U.S. Air Force Maj. Matthew Spears Sept. 18, 2014 after serving two years as the commander.
“You’ve dedicated a year of your lives to improve the mission to increase NATO interoperability, support regional security and build a lasting impression on such a key area of the world,” Harman said. “I look forward to working with you and our professional colleagues to continue building partner capacity.”
The U.S. Air Force Aviation Detachment in Poland, or Av-Det, is a nine-person team that facilitates the U.S. Air Force service members and aircraft in Poland. They continually train with Polish air forces to strengthen bilateral ties and increase interoperability.
Recent involvement in Exercises Eagle Talon and BALTOPS 14 in June 2014 was among many training opportunities aimed at fostering NATO partnerships and bolstering readiness for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces in Africa’s “Forward. Ready. Now!” priority. The detachment completes four annual rotations primarily of F-16 Fighting Falcon, but also includes C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.
Harman shared his gratitude to his predecessor for creating the foundation as the first commander of the detachment upon assuming command. As for the next year, he will continue to establish a constant presence in Europe and execute the mission to foster bilateral defense ties, enhance regional security, and increase interoperability among NATO allies.
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