Rep. Ciscomani Honors the Final A-10 Flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base

Tucson, AZ - U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani is honoring today's final A-10 flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (AFB) in Tucson. Today's flight was flown by the 357th Fighter Squadron Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan "Clutch" Rutter, and the 355th Operations Group Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Rodney Dwyer, and marked the end of an incredible 50-year chapter of A-10 operations at Davis-Monthan AFB.

"Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and the Tucson community have a longstanding connection to the A-10," said Rep. Ciscomani. "Although A-10 operations at the base have now ended, the aircraft's legacy will live on. For half a century, the A-10 aircraft played a pivotal role in our community. While it will no longer be used at Davis-Monthan AFB, the A-10 will forever remain and be remembered as a key component in our city's history and military strength. Congratulations to Lieutenant Colonels Rutter and Dwyer, the 357th Fighter Squadron, and everyone at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base on today's milestone and an impressive 50 years of A-10 operations!"

Among the hundreds attending today's event was Sam Moreland, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel who once served as the squadron commander for the 357th Fighter Squadron.

"It's an emotional event, seeing this mission end," said Moreland, who flew A-10s for most of his military career. "It's near and dear to our hearts. We did it for the troops on the ground and I hope we never forget what this plane did."

Along with those who have served or who currently serve at Davis-Monthan AFB, today's flight is also recognized among other members of the local military community as a significant moment for Tucson.

"The final A-10 flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base signifies the close of a crucial chapter in Tucson's military history," said TJ Hogan, 1989 Air Force Academy Graduate and career A-10 pilot. "The A-10 represents American strength and has been crucial tool of our nation's military for decades. As a former A-10 pilot, I understand firsthand the significance of operating this unique aircraft and how much of an honor it is to do so. I want to congratulate everyone at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base for half a century of A-10 operations and look forward to the A-10 remaining a critical piece of history here in southern Arizona."

Ahead of today's flight, Davis-Monthan AFB celebrated the final graduating class of A-10C Thunderbolt II student pilots from the 357th Training Squadron this spring, whose graduation marked the end of A-10 training at Davis-Monthan AFB.

The completion of A-10 operations at the base reflects both historical significance and a longstanding relationship between the A-10, Davis-Monthan AFB, and the Tucson community.

While the chapter of A-10 operations has closed at Davis-Monthan AFB, this aircraft will remain a crucial asset to the United States military. The A-10 Thunderbolt II nicknamed the "Warthog," has been critical to maintaining the United States' national defense for decades. Designed during the Cold War to combat Soviet tanks in Europe, the A-10 is the Air Force's only aircraft built exclusively for close air support (CAS). Its unique strength and design will continue to be critical in defending and combating threats to the United States' national security.

Ahead of today's last official A-10 flight at Davis-Monthan AFB, Rep. Ciscomani had the honor of delivering a speech on the House floor to recognize this significant milestone.

Watch Rep. Ciscomani's full floor speech HERE.

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