Contributed by the Office ofComptroller General

(L to R): Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom accompanied Lt. Colonel Scott Bridgers, a Top Gun F–16 pilot with the SC Air National Guard

Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom recently flew with F–16 pilots of the 169th Fighter Wing (“Swamp Fox Squadron”) at McEntire Air National Guard Base. As a colonel in the State Guard, Eckstrom understands that today’s fighter pilots must exercise extraordinary skills and lightening–fast judgment.

“Our fighter pilots are endowed with the most modern technology available in the world today. They have at their disposal the ability to unleash devastating lethal power in support of our national strategy,” Eckstrom said. “While the equipment is impressive, I’m even more impressed with the character and quality of the young pilots I know who are protecting our country today.”

Eckstrom accompanied Lt. Colonel Scott Bridgers, a “Top Gun” F–16 pilot with the SC Air National Guard. F–16 pilots must be in top physical shape to endure the physical demands imposed by such powerful and agile aircraft. The F–16’s extreme thrust and maneuverability can produce punishing forces exceeding nine times normal gravity. McEntire pilots are required to undergo constant rigorous physical training and must complete weekly aerial training sorties.

Because of recent base realignment efforts, SC’s Air Guard will be receiving nine additional F–16 fighter jets from Mountain Home Air Base in Idaho.

The Air Force maintains an air combat training range in the southwest corner of our state that McEntire pilots use to sharpen their combat skills. The SC Air National Guard’s experienced pilots have flown scores of successful combat missions throughout the Middle East without a single casualty.