Predator squadron launches flag flying program Published May 2, 2012 By Senior Airman William A. O'Brien 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Editor's note: Last names were omitted to protect the identity of Airmen due to operational security measures. A flag flown in an aircraft performing a mission could make a unique gift for a variety of reasons. To some, the story behind the mission could intrigue them. Others may appreciate the patriotic value. Then there are those who see that flag as a memento of being stationed in a foreign country. The 414th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron here offers the opportunity to fly a flag in an MQ-1B Predator. Since starting the flag-flying program April 12, the 414th ERS flew 11 flags and received 26 additional requests. "The flag program was enacted by Colonel (Eric), our acting group commander," said Capt. Cedric, 414th ERS director of operations. "Historically, we fly flags for guests, distinguished visitors, Airmen, whoever wants one aboard a military aircraft." Each flag comes with a personalized certificate outlining the operation and details about the aircraft on which the flag was flown. "Once we're done, we draw up a certificate with the history of that particular flight, and the requestor can present that flag as a gift to a person of their choosing," explained Cedric. "We also put the person's name, the name of the operation and some background on there, as well." Because of the space available to fly several flags in one aircraft at a time and the unit's flexibility, the squadron can usually accommodate flying a flag on the day of the requester's choosing. "They can choose the day they want the flag flown, and as long as the weather is cooperating, we'll have it flown on that day," said Cedric. "We haven't missed a date yet." The program isn't limited to American flags. Cedric said his team is willing to fly any type of flag. "We fly American flags, Turkish flags, personal flags, flags for people back home, churches (and) state organizations," said Cedric. Cedric said once the word spreads about programs like this, they garner a lot of interest because of the exclusivity of the souvenir. "It's a unique program that's been around for a long time. A lot of people don't know about it until we present it to someone they know or a friend. Then they're like, 'Oh I want one. What do I need to do?'" said Cedric. "In most aircraft, it just flies for a few hours and comes right back. Our particular mission flies for about 22 hours and covers more than 1,000 miles." To request to have a flag flown by the 414th ERS, e-mail 414ers.ops2@incirlik.af.mil.