Moody 'Tiger Shark' A-10s add bite to Osan air power

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Eric Petosky
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Nine A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft emblazoned with shark teeth on the noses arrived April 30, 2012, signaling the beginning of the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron's six-month rotation at Osan Air Base.

Approximately 250 Airmen and 12 aircraft from the 75th EFS "Tiger Sharks," based at the 23d Wing at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., deployed to the Republic of Korea as part of the theater security package, a continuous fighter squadron rotation to Osan and Kunsan air bases.

"This deployment will enhance our combat capabilities and provide a strong deterrent, ensuring peace and stability for the Republic of Korea," said Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc Jouas, 7th Air Force commander.

While at Osan, 75th EFS pilots will fly a combination of close air support, airborne forward air controller and search and rescue training sorties. They will work alongside joint and ROK military partners, strengthening relationships and improving capabilities to defend against any threat.

Previously, F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, operating out of Kunsan AB, fulfilled the theater support package requirement. The F-16s returned to Hill AFB April 11, 2012.

"We are here to show our friends in the Pacific that we are ready to help regardless of what happens," said Lt. Col. Dan Clayton, 75th EFS director of operations.

The 75th EFS joins two other fighter squadrons permanently assigned to Mustang Country, but instead of hearing the familiar cries of "Pil Sung!" or "Harrumph!" they shout "Attack!"

The A-10s of the 75th EFS also sport stylized shark teeth on either side of the cockpit, a heritage paint scheme dating back to the 23rd Fighter Group in World War II when the squadron flew P-40 Warhawks and P-51 Mustangs over China.