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Flying Nightmares Rock the Afghan Skies

Marine Corps News

1/8/2003

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Shannon Arledge

BAGRAM, Afghanistan(June 7, 2003) -- The Marines of Marine Attack Squadron 513, from Yuma, Ariz., arrived in Bagram, Afghanistan, in early October 2002. More than 150 Marines, and an undisclosed number of AV-8B Harrier aircraft, deployed to the region in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The squadron is the first of land-based Harriers serving in direct support of the War on Terrorism. The Harriers provide close-air support; armed escort for other aircraft and vehicle convoys; and provide air cover during helicopter insertions and extractions. According to the unit's commanding officer, Lieutenant Col. Jim A. Dixon, they have had the opportunity to support the ground forces on many occasions.

"Over the course of our first three months our enemy has gained a new appreciation for Marine and other aviation elements. ...although we would all like to drop a great deal of ordnance, we have come to understand that the mere presence of U.S. airpower is sometimes sufficient to keep the enemy at bay. Just knowing the noise of our jets keeps Soldiers safe, and the [Taliban and al Qaida] on the run, has made the trip all worthwhile."

The air base is located about five-thousand feet above sea level and temperatures dip into the low teens in the evening. The Marines had to adjust to a higher altitude and colder temperatures, but the Harrier aircraft has logged in excess of one thousand flight hours.

"The jets are running great. Aside from routine maintenance they are running safely and effectively," said Staff Sgt. Sean E. Sayegh, staff NCOIC of aviation life support systems.

"We are putting the aircraft through the paces and gaining a lot of knowledge for future deployments," added the 31-year-old, Las Vegas, Nev., native.

Also known as the Flying Nightmares, the squadron brings relatively new technology to the global war. They are the first to introduce the Litening II Targetting Pod to the fight.

This targeting system offers pilots the ability to 'see into the night' with infrared imaging. It also gives them the ability to use precision-guided weapons, marking points on the ground [for ground forces] with laser-guided beams. "This precision capability to spot targets, and self designate weapons has put us in high demand," said Dixon. "Coalition and sister service forces often request the 'Litening Pod' which provides an accurate means to locate and identify enemy positions. We have dropped several laser guided bombs and all were direct hits. Other ordnance expended included five inch rockets."

The commanding officer added that the Harrier also has a quick response time to the target, often reaching them in less than ten minutes.

The Marines of VMA-513 work hard at keeping the planes in the air, and each of them gains more experience with each passing day. For many of them this is their first deployment, and serving in a combat environment, at times, can be stressful.

"The Marines' spirits are up and they are looking forward to each day. Many of the Marines are new to the Corps, and squadron, and they are performing great," said Master Sgt. Patrick L. VanDynHoven, maintenance chief from Combined Locks, Wis.

"They are extremely motivated and diligent," said Dixon. He added, "They work hard and look out for each other. They continually demonstrate professionalism in their actions on and off duty."

Dixon, from Columbus, Ga., attributes his squadron's success in the air to the Marines on the ground. "It is a great aircraft and our readiness rate is above normal. The Harriers have been maintained the best ever."

According to Cpl. Christopher P. Duffy, 23, who calls St. Louis, Mo. home, he extended his active-duty contract for this deployment. "A few times we have lent charitable support to local families who really need the help. It feels great personally. This is dangerous duty and we always have to stay on our toes, but serving my country here is an honor."

Just over a year ago, the Taliban and al Qaida roamed freely in this area. It wasn't until the combined efforts of coalition forces rooted them from their homes that they were forced to flee into the mountains; some captured, some killed, but they ran.

The Nightmares of VMA-513 live up to their name, and daily [or nightly] continue to streak the skies over Afghanistan. Although explosions and gunfire from the enemy occasionally ring through the chilled air, the Marines are on a constant attempt to bring peace to this land. They all hope to have given something back to the people who call this region home; something called, 'The Sound of Freedom'.