DCOM USAFE-AFAFRICA immersed into Incirlik AB readiness Published Oct. 14, 2022 By Capt. Gerald Peden 39th Air Base Wing INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. John Lamontagne, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa deputy commander and Maj. Gen. Joel Carey, USAFE-AFAFRICA director of operations, strategic deterrence and nuclear integration, visited Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, Oct. 2-3, 2022. The 39th Air Base wing is committed to developing innovative approaches that will continue to build partner nation support and interoperability to achieve our mission in defending NATO’s southern flank. "It's exciting to see the unique and specialized capabilities of the 39th Air Base Wing," said Lieutenant General John Lamontagne. "The wing has an extensive history of supporting agile combat capability and working alongside our Turkish allies here at Incirlik. These enduring relationships give us a competitive advantage in defense of NATO's Southern and Eastern flanks." During the immersion, Lamontagne and Carey visited the 39th Weapons System Security Group, where they received briefings and met with Airmen from security forces, maintenance and the operations support squadrons to see the critical roles Team Titan members maintain to defend NATO’s southern flank and support our allies first-hand. “The Airmen here are trained and equipped to meet the needs of any contingency operations that may arise,” said Lamontagne. “The roles and responsibilities they have in maintaining a robust base defense system allows our team to execute our strategic mission in a dynamic environment.” Additionally, Lamontagne met with members from the 39th Mission Support Group and 39th Medical Group to learn more about base facilities, medical care and the capabilities of geographically separated units. While showcasing the mission of the 39th Air Base Wing, Col. Calvin Powell, 39th ABW commander, emphasized the base’s participation with NATO allies in exercises and training as an example of how forces come together to enhance readiness, reliability and responsiveness. “Our forward presence here at Incirlik demonstrates our commitment to defending NATO and affirms the value of the alliance,” said Powell. “Our presence assures our allies, allows us to respond to threats, and ensures support to global operations.” The 39th ABW defends NATO’s southern flank under the direction of Third Air Force, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and U.S. European Command. The wing projects global power through strategic deterrence, agile combat support and enduring partnerships to defend U.S. interests and allies.