JACKSON — Airmen and soldiers from several Mississippi National Guard units deployed in late February to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to support Operation Epic Fury, the Mississippi National Guard said.
Units participating in the deployment include the 186th Air Refueling Wing, the 172d Airlift Wing, the 2-20th Special Forces Battalion and the Special Operations Detachment, officials said. The deployment brings together multiple Mississippi National Guard units working as a joint force to support operations overseas, the statement said.
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves praised the service members and their families as they begin the mission. “Mississippi is praying for the brave members of the Mississippi National Guard and all U.S. service members who have been deployed as part of Operation Epic Fury,” Reeves said. “Our state’s guardsmen are truly the best of the best, and Mississippi will always be grateful to them and their families for courageously defending our nation.”
Maj. Gen. Bobby M. Ginn Jr., the Adjutant General of Mississippi, said the deployment reflects the readiness and commitment of the state’s military personnel. “Mississippi’s Airmen and Soldiers stand ready to serve wherever they are needed,” Ginn said. “Supporting this operation highlights the training, commitment and capability that define the Mississippi National Guard.” Air refueling and airlift units typically provide fuel and transport support, while special forces and special operations elements perform specialized missions in overseas operations.
We will provide more information as it becomes available.
