B-52 Stratofortress returns to the Czech Republic

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jeff Walston
  • 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
- Barksdale --  NATO Days in Ostrava, Czech Republic, began its air show tradition ten years ago. Originally, it was a regional public presentation of the army, police and first responders, but it evolved into the largest air, military and security show in Central Europe.

A B-52 from Barksdale's Reserve Wing, the 307th Bomb Wing, for the second year in a row, supported the air show and continued to build on the relationship with the Czech Republic's military and its people. Upon arrival, the bomber crew was given the opportunity to make remarks to the media.

"Last year we came as visitors. This year, we come as family and friends," said Colonel Joseph Jones, 307th Bomb Wing vice commander. "The world is a very small place and we need you as our allies." Participants in this year's NATO Days in Ostrava air show included the Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Norway, Slovakia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, and the NATO E-3A Component.

According to Colonel Jones, the two-day event brought together many men who were once adversaries. Pilots and soldiers from many nations who at one time in history stood on the brink of war, now smiled, shaking hands with one another, and spoke about what once was and the promise of the future.

On Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011, after the air show had closed its gates, and over 225,000 people later, members of the 307th BW and Czech Air Force met for a special mission planning and briefings concerning the joint operation to be undertaken the next day.

For the first time in history, on Sept. 26, 2011, U.S. Air Force and Czech Air Force assets and Airmen were working together for a common training goal. Brig. Gen. Jiří Verner, the commander of Czech air force, was on board a B-52 Stratofortress watching it all unfold. The combined U.S., Czech mission was planned for the B-52 Stratofortess, two Saab JAS 39C Gripens, and three Areo L 159 ALCAs (Advanced Light Combat Aircraft). The crews flew practice intercepts against each other, then the B-52 was engaged by a Czech SA-6 Surface to Air missile system before working a Close Air Support mission with Czech ground forces. Lieutenant Colonel David Webb, 307th OSF commander, reinforced the unique opportunity. "We are all NATO members, and as such, we all speak the same 'language' with regards to combat operations. The chance to fly with a partner nation is excellent training for both the Czechs and U.S. Forces."

When asked what the combined mission will do for U.S and Czech Republic relations and what it means to him personally, General Verner responded with a smile. "I can say that before 1989, no one would say I would be part of a B-52 crew, flying with the crew on a mission, land in the U.K., and be back home in the afternoon. It's very International," he said. "This is good for the people of the Czech Republic Air Force, our Airmen, and the best way to improve relationships."

General Verner, who occasionally flies the Gripen, looked into the sky as the last of the planes from the air show left the runway. "This is beautiful weather. It is better ... we can fly this mission together," the General said. "I am the first Czech to ride in the B-52. This is kind of an award for me. I still don't believe it ... maybe tomorrow."