Photo By Staff Sgt. Lexie West | U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Devin Boyer, 435th Air Expeditionary Wing photojournalist,...... read more read more
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CAMP SIMBA, Kenya -- Airmen assigned to the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron conducted a flag-raising ceremony at Camp Simba, Kenya, Aug. 26, 2019.
The 475th EABS raised the flag for the first time since the base operating support-integrator (BOS-I) mission started in 2017, signifying the change from tactical to enduring operations.
“The flag flying here today over Camp Simba symbolizes the permanency of our mission and our dedication to our partners,” said Lt. Col. Cody Smith, 475th EABS commander.
Counter-terrorism operations and enabling the Kenyan’s to secure their borders are just two examples of how the 475th EABS supports their mission partners.
“We not only train the Kenyan rangers who are out on the frontlines, but we also provide administrative, medical, and law enforcement training to the Kenyan Navy here,” said Cody Smith. “When you’re an enduring mission, training support becomes the core of what you do. We have now established ourselves as a facilitating agency to provide continuity to the Kenyan defense forces to rid themselves of terrorism.”
To signify the continued mission at Camp Simba, the Airmen posted the colors permanently at the heart of the camp.
Staff Sgt. Corey Smith, 475th EABS heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) non-commissioned officer in charge (NCOIC), had the honor of bearing the flag during the ceremony and said he was in awe of being part of the momentous occasion.
“It means a lot to be able to work hand-in-hand with our Kenyan partners because they’re giving us the posture to be here and we’re helping them with their tactics and mission as well,” said Corey Smith.
Airmen serving at Camp Simba will continue to do so while honoring the history and heritage of their nation away from home.
“By having that symbol flying every day on the camp, it provides a rallying point. It’s a constant reminder of your sacrifice and why you’re here,” said Cody Smith.
| Date Taken: | 08.26.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 09.11.2019 04:37 |
| Story ID: | 339457 |
| Location: | MANDA BAY, KE |
| Web Views: | 868 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Camp Simba conducts inaugural flag ceremony, by SSgt Lexie West, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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