192nd Intelligence Squadron to receive Meritorious Unit Award

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Meaghan E. M. Selki
  • 192nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. --  The Virginia Air National Guard's 192nd Intelligence Squadron, 192nd Fighter Wing will be honored with the Meritorious Unit Award for outstanding service in direct support of combat operations between June 2014 and May 2015.

"During the period of award, the squadron supported 446 combat intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, created 5,898 products and contributed 21,534 hours in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Enduring Freedom," said Brig. Gen. Dean A. Tremps, Chief of Staff and Air Component Commander of the Virginia Air National Guard. "I'm privileged to just be standing in front of you and announce this. Thank you very much for your service and the work you do every day."

The Secretary of the Air Force approved the MUA as a new award in 2004 to recognize units for exceptional meritorious conduct during military operations against an armed enemy of the United States on or after Sept. 11, 2001. In order to win this award, a unit must display such outstanding devotion and superior performance of exceptionally difficult tasks as to set 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.

"This award is a great testament to your professionalism," said Maj. Gen. Timothy P. Williams, the Adjutant General of the Virginia.

The dynamic between the 192nd Intelligence Squadron and the 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing is a primary example of the total force relationship where Virginia Air Guard members work side by side with active duty to conduct daily operational missions.

"This is the first time in our history the MUA has been awarded to a squadron in the 192nd Fighter Wing," said Chief Master Sgt. Michael J. Bouley, 192nd Fighter Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant. "It's huge.  Through our total force integrated relationship with active duty that started back in 2005, we have become an integral part of daily mission execution."

The MUA was awarded to the 480th ISR Wing and all supporting groups and squadrons.

Details about the official ceremony and presentation of the award are forthcoming.