Estonian gift

Members of the 442d Fighter Wing from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., thank the Estonian military for being the host nation for the unit during Operation Atlantic Resolve Sept. 1 at Amari Air Base in Estonia. The 442d FW presented a gun barrel from an A-10 Thunderbolt II to their NATO allies. OAR is America's commitment to European security. The U.S. is demonstrating its continued commitment to collective security through a series of action designed to reassure NATO allies and partners of America's dedication to ensuring peace and stability in the Baltic region. We present this gift to you as a thank you for hosting us during this exercise, and to say we always have your back as one of our allies, said Col. James Macaulay, 442d Operations Group commander. A few months ago when we feared war on the horizon and that was what on our minds, our NATO friends and allies started showing their support, and you are still here to show support for the democratic way of life that we desire, said Col. Jaak Tarien, Estonian Air Force commander. We are very appreciative of that. The 442d FW will be a part of OAR for approximately three weeks. (Courtesy photo by Kevin Jackson, UK Aircraft Aviation Magazine)