39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (USAFENS) -- While the spotlight has been focused lately on Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom’s global war on terrorism still quietly continues in Afghanistan.

In addition to supporting troop movements of U.S. Soldiers from Iraq, thousands of Airmen and Soldiers supporting OEF are passing through here, either on their way down range or traveling home.

“Incirlik is in a strategic location, perfect as a convenient refueling spot for missions en route to and from the ‘Stans,” said Lt. Col. Janon Ellis, 728th Air Mobility Squadron commander. “ Incirlik should remain a transit point for OEF missions into the foreseeable future.”

Once here, “Incirlik’s job is to download and upload passengers, ensure 100 percent accountability and ensure aircraft are serviced, fueled and ready to continue their mission,” said Capt. Jeffrey Berlakovich, 728th AMS Aerial Port Flight commander.

Unlike OIF Soldiers, who spend time in a hangar turned temporary terminal, OEF travelers wait out their layover at Incirlik’s passenger terminal.

“On average, the troops are here about three hours,” said 1st Lt. Jennifer Luoma, 728th AMS passenger terminal officer in charge. “Sometimes there are just a handful, and other times we get hundreds passing through.

“We can handle the numbers with no problem,” she said. “Occasionally this changes, such as a few weeks ago when we had to borrow the OIF hangar because we had more than 500 OEF troops here at one time.”

Once in the terminal, it’s 728th AMS’ job to ensure the troops’ stay at Incirlik is a pleasant one.

“Our responsibility is to get the passengers off the plane and inside to make their time as enjoyable as possible,” said Senior Airman Chris Montoya, 728th AMS passenger service agent. “For instance, we make sure they have access to phones so they can get in touch with their families.”

Along with the 728th, the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron also plays a vital role by ensuring the aircraft are fueled for flight.

“If needed, we can provide more than a million gallons of fuel a day,” said Capt. Mike Nigro, 39th LRS operations officer. “This makes Incirlik very attractive for missions like troop transits.”

While the mission may not be as high profile at the moment as OIF, people still seem proud to contribute to an important mission, Airman Montoya said.

“People heading back home have the biggest smiles, but morale seems high all around,” he said. “I love being able to support this mission. It’s an honor to meet the people firsthand who are making a difference and ensuring our country’s safety and security.”

-- USAFENS --