Retiree News

Since the launch of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) in 2014 which was aimed at defeating ISIS in Iraq and Syria, the Hawai‘i National Guard (HING) has contributed to the multinational campaign with multiple deployments. Units from both the Hawai‘i Air National Guard (HIANG) and Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) deployed over the years, providing critical capabilities in air operations, communications, refueling and aviation support.

2015: First HIANG Deployments

In January 2015, the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron, HIANG deployed in support of OIR, marking the HINGʻs early involvement. Later that year, in September, the 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG in partnership with the active-duty 19th Fighter Squadron, deployed F-22 Raptors to the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility (CENTCOM AOR). This was the first combat deployment for the Hawaiian Raptors since their conversion to the F-22 in 2010, and the 199th’s first combat deployment since 2000.

Supported by personnel from the 154th Wing, HIANG and active-duty 15th Wing, the Raptors conducted precision airstrikes against ISIS targets, contributing to the 18-nation coalition’s efforts to degrade and dismantle enemy operations.

2016–2017: Strategic Air Refueling Operations

Throughout 2016 and 2017, the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron and parts of the 154th Wing, conducted multiple deployments to Southwest Asia. Flying KC-135 Stratotankers, HIANG airmen supported coalition air campaigns by enabling extended flight operations for U.S. and allied aircraft through aerial refueling missions. During one six-month rotation in 2017, over 90 HIANG personnel flew more than 300 missions, offloading over 7 million pounds of fuel to 600+ aircraft, and logging over 2,100 flight hours.

2018–2019: Army Aviation Support

In 2018, Detachment 1, Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, HIARNG deployed in support of OIR, operating from June 2018 to May 2019. The detachment provided aviation support within the CENTCOM AOR, contributing to mobility, reconnaissance, and logistics for joint and coalition forces.

Legacy of Service and Continued Commitment

The HING’s involvement in OIR reflects its multi-domain capabilities and ongoing contribution to global coalition efforts. From air superiority and communications infrastructure, to strategic refueling and aviation, HIANG and HIARNG personnel have played a vital role in the mission to defeat ISIS and stabilize the region.

References: 2015 Annual Report, 2015 October Pūpūkahi, 2016 May Pupukahi, 2016 June Pupukahi, 2018 Spring Pupukahi, 2019 Annual Report