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F-16s arrive at Andersen to support homeland security mission

By Staff Sgt. Stacy Coville
The Pacific Edge

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- F-16 Fighting Falcons from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, arrived here March 24 to participate in homeland security measures that have been ongoing since Sept. 11, 2001.

With operations under way in Iraq, U.S. Pacific Command officials deemed it necessary to deploy aircraft here to promote a defensive posture in the Pacific region.

"The United States continually positions forces when and where required to provide homeland security," said Lt. Col. Rob Cushing, commander of the 18th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron F-16 unit deployed here.

The fighters will remain as long as the USPACOM commander decides they are needed as part of the homeland security mission, an official said.

The U.S. air defense commander for Guam said there's no reason for people to feel threatened.

"There have been no indications of a direct threat to Guam at this time," said Maj. Gen. Dennis Larsen, who is also the 13th Air Force commander. "We are always sensitive to potential threats against the United States and will take measures to ensure the safety of our citizens."

Homeland security is the prevention of and defense against possible aggression targeted at U.S. territories and assets, as well as the management of responses to aggressive actions and domestic emergencies. (PACAFNS)