Page 7 - Luke AFB Thunderbolt – November 2024
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e air tranSitionS to F-35
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signed to the 309th Fighter Squadron, during the final 309th FS graduation for F-16 pilots, hub for F-16 pilots, the 56th Fighter Wing is shifting exclusively to F-35A Lightning II train-
antling F-16 equipment to prepare for F-35 operations.
U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Katelynn Jackson
U.S. Air Force graduated pilots from the 309th Fighter Squadron stand in line during the final 309th FS graduation for F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots, Sept. 20, 2024, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona.
Luke Air Force Base leadership, family members and community members stand for the playing of the National Anthem during the final 309th Fighter Squadron graduation for F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots, Sept. 20, 2024, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. The F-35A is the U.S. Air Force’s latest fifth-generation fighter that will replace the fleet of aging F-16s and A-10 Thunderbolt II’s.
Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard members wait to present the colors during the final 309th Fighter Squadron graduation for F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots, Sept. 20, 2024, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona.
U.S. Air Force
Lt. Col. Michael Ress, 309th
Fighter Squadron commander, speaks at the final 309th
FS graduation for F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots, Sept. 20, 2024, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona.
