· The 104th Fighter Wing is one of two Air National Guard Wings assigned to the Massachusetts Air National Guard.

· The Wing performs a dual mission with both state and federal missions, reporting to the President of the United States and the Governor of Massachusetts.

· We are available for prompt mobilization during war and provide assistance during national emergencies (such as natural disasters or civil disturbances).

· Our heritage extends back to August of 1942 when the 333rd Fighter Squadron was activated under the U.S. Army Air Force. On April 10, 1946 Barnes Airport, now known as Barnes Municipal Airport, was selected as the home of this unit.

· Today, the Wing is comprised of about 1,080 members, with 380 of those members in full-time status. Close to 200 unit members, in groups of one to about 20 individuals, deployed to countries across the globe during 2008-2009.

· The 104th has employed 8 jets over the six decades of operation. Today, we fly the F-15 Eagle, a conversion made in 2007, as result of the Base Realignment and Closure Act (BRAC). Effective in February 2010, we will perform air sovereignty and alert missions for air defense of the Northeastern sector of the United States. This is a 24/7, 365 day mission.

· The Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard is MajGen Joseph Carter, and the Air Commander is MajGen Michael Akey. 104th Fighter Wing leadership include: Col Robert Brooks, Commander; Col James Keefe, Vice Wing Commander; and Chief Al Reale, Command Chief Master Sergeant. Group Commanders include: Col Edward Gunning (Mission Support Group); Col Tony Gwosch (Maintenance Group); LtCol Ken Lambrich (Operations Group); and Col Sean Collins (Medical Group).

· In fiscal year 2009, the 104th Fighter Wing's combined operational, maintenance and payroll budget was $34.6 million. Our construction budget was about $60 million. Part of this construction budget is to upgrade our facilities to house the new F-15, as result of the Base Realignment and Closure Act, and part of the construction budget was for ongoing modernization of our facilities.