LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A sensor operator from the 432nd Operations Support Squadron, scans his controls during a simulated training mission in a MQ-1 Predator, over the Nevada Test Range, Nev. Oct. 26, 2013. The basic crew for the Predator is a rated pilot to control the aircraft and command the mission, and an enlisted aircrew member to operate sensors and weapons as well as a mission coordinator, when required. The crew employs the aircraft from inside the ground control station via a line-of-sight data link or a satellite data link for beyond line-of-sight operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. A.D./RELEASED)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – An MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper prepare for takeoff on the Creech Air Force Base, Nev., flightline July 18, 2013. Both aircraft are armed, multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft that are employed primarily as intelligence-collection asset aircraft, with the ability to respond to changing mission requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. A.D./RELEASED)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- A munitions Airman tightens bolts on a GBU-12 during a bomb build June 19, 2013, in preparation for the 432nd Wing Hunt competition. The bombs were used to further the realism and intensity of the competition, as they were used for live munitions loading on the MQ-9 Reaper. The competition takes place June 23-28 between multiple remotely piloted aircraft squadrons, offering an opportunity for training and demonstration of skill. During the competition, RPA squadron teams were required to formulate a mission plan, evaluate a threat and develop a strategy to execute the mission effectively. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Senior Airman A.K./Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Creech RPA Airmen earn Meritorious Unit Award

Published Sept. 4, 2013
By Staff Sgt. N.B.
432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing has been awarded the Air Combat Command Meritorious Unit Award for outstanding achievement in direct support of combat operations from June 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013.

The combat-ready Airmen of the 432nd employ the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper aircraft, providing warfighters with long-endurance, real time intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision attack capability against fixed, mobile and time-critical targets.

"I'm continuously impressed and humbled by the amazing work you do every day to support joint warfighters around the globe," said Col. Jim Cluff, 432nd Wing/432nd AEW commander. "This award is not just for one individual squadron, it is a culmination of the entire wing's contributions to 24/7, 365 world-wide combat operations. Congratulations on a job extremely well done."

Squadrons that fall under the wing flew more than 100,000 combat hours in support of U.S. and coalition forces overseas during this time.

Other milestones include the creation of the first ISR video editing training program, creating the first Airmen Ministry Center for increased Airman resiliency, and secured the AF ISR squadron of the year for 2012.

The wing was also credited with five major command best safety practices and stood up the first combined multi-national training cell for ISR missions.

In March 2004, the Secretary of the Air Force approved the Meritorious Unit Award to recognize organizations for outstanding achievement or service in direct support of combat operations.

To be selected, a unit must display outstanding devotion and superior performance of exceptionally difficult tasks, setting it apart and above other units with similar missions. The degree of achievement required is the same as that which would warrant award of the Legion of Merit.