ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - The 177th Fighter Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, based at Atlantic City International Airport, is commencing an aircraft dedication program as a symbol of the strong ties that exist between the New Jersey Air Guard and its communities.  To show its appreciation for the support local communities have given, the 177th will be dedicating individual F-16C aircraft to the communities immediately surrounding the main base at the airport and the detachment at Warren Grove Range, Warren Grove, NJ.

The inscription “Spirit of” will be painted on the side of the aircraft followed by the community’s name.  A separate dedication ceremony will be held with the Mayor and head council members of each community to unveil their aircraft.

Many members of the 177th live in these communities and, as citizen airmen, “We want to feel more integrated with our communities,” said Col. Mike Cosby, Commander, 177th Fighter Wing. Commander.  “We wish to use this opportunity to reassert the important connection between the communities from which we come and the missions we fulfill around the world.  What better way to show our appreciation than dedicating our aircraft which has been a time-honored tradition since the earliest days of aviation.”

The first aircraft dedication is planned for late May or early June, 2002 with the first community yet to be announced.

For more information, contact the 177th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at (609) 645-6005 or email at pa.177fw@njatla.ang.af.mil .