The 45 Year History of Kadena’s F-15s

Image courtesy of Shutterstock (Photo contributor Wirestock Creators)

 By: SMSgt Justin M. Mirante

“I have come to ground you,” the storm threatened. “I will rise above you,” the defiant eagle replied. -Matshona Dhliwayo

Prologue – The Power of the Eagle

Native Americans deeply revere the eagle, viewing the gift of its feathers as one of great honor.[1] “When a feather falls to the earth, it is considered a sacred gift from the sky and the Creator, carrying the bird’s energy and purpose. In traditional practices, Native Warriors were awarded feathers for acts of exceptional bravery or victory in battle.”[2] According to Native culture, “the eagle was chosen by the Creator to be the master of the sky, as it could fly higher and see farther than other birds.”[3] The eagle, in this belief, “was a messenger that carried the prayers of humans on earth up to the Spirit World.”[4]

The “signum” (standard) of the roman legion. It has a
roman eagle, the “SPQR” (senate and people of rome), a
laurel wreath and a imperial portrait. Image courtesy of
Shutterstock. (Photo contributor marcovaldo)

The eagle has long held a vital role in the militaries of the world, symbolizing strength, courage, victory, honor, and valor. A prime example of this is found within the Roman Legion, where the eagle was adopted as a symbol of the strength and unwavering commitment to the Roman Empire.[5] With the creation of the Roman army, new emblems known as standards were introduced and carried into battle by legionaries. Initially, these standards consisted of bundles of straw attached to tall staffs. Over time, the Romans began placing animal emblems on their standards.[6] Following a crushing defeat in 105 BC during the Cimbrian War, the Romans undertook a thorough self-assessment and reorganization of their military forces. As part of this restructuring, the eagle was chosen as the official military standard. Placing emphasis on the eagle was done to embrace its core qualities of bravery and power as the focal point of the Roman Army’s identity. From that point forward, the standard remained a bronze or silver Aquila (Eagle) with spread wings.[7]

Today, the eagle is an enduring symbol in the US military, which is reflected on the flags of four of the uniformed branches of the US Armed Forces. Eagle was also the name given to the F-15 Fighter Aircraft. This article’s title, “A Gathering of Eagles,” is taken from “Eagles Over the Pacific,” which was originally published in the March 1982 issue of AIRMAN Magazine. In the article, author, SSgt Craig Pugh, describes a painting on the wall of the 44th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) of a Soviet MIG-23 Flogger in the gunsight of an F-15, and then, states simply: “Welcome to a frontline PACAF fighter squadron; welcome to a gathering of Eagles”[8] This article pays tribute to the F-15C’s reign in the Pacific theater and recognizes the men and women who have maintained and flown the Eagle at Kadena AB since its delivery, and subsequent departure, as the divestment of the F-15 C/D-model at Kadena AB comes to an end. To pay this tribute, we must remember and reflect on the past, while also looking to the future…

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle Flies above the Mariana Islands in support of exercise Valiant Shield 18, Sept. 18, 2018. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Bumpus)

1972

On June 26, 1972, in St. Louis, Missouri, during the christening ceremony of the first F-15 prototype (71-0280), James S. McDonnell, Chairman of McDonnell Douglas, declared: “The airplane we are unveiling today represents a major addition to our foundation of strength. The F-15, which will be known as the Eagle.”[9] Prior to ceremoniously smashing a bottle of champagne against the F-15’s nose (an act that likely made every maintainer in attendance cringe), Mrs. Iris P. Hansen, wife of then Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Research and Development, Grant L. Hansen, proclaimed: “I christen thee Eagle, and may you reign supreme in your domain.”[10]

For those who have flown, maintained, or supported the F-15 in any capacity, it’s hard not to watch the video of the 1972 ceremony—and listen to McDonnell and Mrs. Hansen—without feeling emotional and filled with an overwhelming sense of pride. This was a historical moment for an aircraft destined to become the world’s greatest air superiority fighter. On that day, a torch was lit, one that is still carried by the F-15 community; a community that has bled, sweated, and dedicated their careers to ensuring the Eagle has reigned supreme in its domain.

Immediately after the ceremony, 71-0280 was disassembled, loaded onto a C-5 Galaxy, and flown to Edwards AFB.[11] The next day, on July 27, 1972, Irv Burrows made the aircraft’s first test flight, a 50-minute sortie.[12] 71-0280 then became the test aircraft for flight envelope exploration, general handling, and external stores testing. Within one week of its first flight, the aircraft reached Mach 1.5 and an altitude of 45,000 feet. After its test career with the McDonnell Douglas/USAF/F-15 Joint Test Force at Edwards AFB, the aircraft was retired. It was repainted with tail number 85-114/EG in tribute to retired USAF F-15 pilot Colonel Cesar “Rico” Rodriguez, and his MiG kill during Operation Desert Storm. It was then preserved at Lackland AFB, where it remains on display today.[13]

Image courtesy of Shutterstock (Photo contributor BSTOCKVIDEO)

The Eagles Disperse

The F-15 Eagle is an all-weather, highly maneuverable tactical fighter aircraft designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat.[14] It was also “the first US operational aircraft whose engines’ thrust exceeds the plane’s loaded weight, allowing it to accelerate even while in a vertical climb.”[15] The Eagle’s multi-mission avionics systems, versatile radar package, and wide array of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons set it apart from other fighters upon its initial acquisition—and continue to do so today.

In 1973, a year after the F-15’s first flight, the F-15B (also designated as the TF-15A) two-seat trainer variant made its maiden flight. By November 1974, both the F-15A and F-15B arrived at the 58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing at Luke AFB where initial pilot training for the Eagle was conducted.[16] In January 1976, the 1st Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) at Langley AFB, received the first Eagle bound for combat. By April 1977, the 36 TFW, then equipped with the F-15, was deployed to Bitburg AB, Germany. The 49 TFW at Holloman AFB also received Eagles in the fall of 1977, and in October 1978, the 32nd Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) at Camp New Amsterdam, Netherlands received its first F-15. The single-seat F-15C and the two-seat F-15D entered the Air Force inventory in early 1979.[17] The F-15 fleet expansion was soon to extend to a critical location, becoming a foundational nesting ground for its future legacy.

On 26 September 1979, 18 F-15s, piloted by 67 TFS pilots—many of whom had just completed F-15 mission qualification training—departed Eglin AFB, bound for the Pacific. Led by Brigadier General James R. Brown, then-commander of the 18 TFW, the F-15s flew for 9.2 hours to Hickam AFB. Only one aircraft, flown by Col Hugh M. Milton, the 18th Tactical Fighter Group (TFG) Operations Officer, diverted to George AFB, due to fluctuating oil pressure. Col Milton took a commercial flight and rejoined the squadron at Hickam AFB. Awaiting the Eagles in Hawaii was a maintenance crew flown in from Kadena AB to service and prepare the aircraft for their final leg of the journey.[18]

On 28 September, the 67 TFS departed for a non-stop, 9.8-hour flight to Kadena AB. Col Milton diverted to Wake Island due to an avionics package cooling malfunction, while the other aircraft pressed on. On 29 September 1979, sixteen F-15s (14 C-models and 2 D- models) touched down at Kadena AB. This day marked the 67 TFS as the first fully equipped squadron with F-15C/D Eagle aircraft in the Pacific Air Forces. The Eagles had arrived, and they would nest at Kadena AB for the next 45 years.[19]

Image taken from the base newspaper announcement of the arrival of the F-15 to Kadena Air Base on Sept. 29, 2014. (Newspaper image courtesy of Kadena Air Base and original U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt M. J. Creen)

1982 – “Eagles Over the Pacific”

To fully appreciate the legacy of the F-15 at Kadena AB, it’s important to understand not just the aircraft itself, but the people who brought it to life – its aircrew and maintainers. “Eagles Over the Pacific” serves as a vital historical reference in this regard. The article captures the operational tempo, challenges, and day-to-day dedication of those who flew and sustained the F-15 in the Pacific theater not long after its original arrival. By referencing it here, I aim to highlight the human element behind the aircraft’s decades-long presence at Kadena AB – men and women whose professionalism and sacrifice ensured the F-15’s mission readiness and dominance in the region. Their stories are as much a part of the F-15’s legacy as the aircraft’s capabilities. The following is an excerpt is from “Eagles Over the Pacific.”

“Midnight at Kadena AB, Okinawa, Japan. On the aircraft parking ramp, A1C Jeannie Campbell, an F-15 Eagle Crew Chief, begins to verify the detailed checklist item by item. If all goes well – and it should – her airplane will be mission-ready when the sun comes up. Off in the distance, the twinkling lights of base housing are snuffed out one at a time by unseen hands as the night wears into the fresh hours of a new day.

To her, the descending quiet is of no concern. Neither is the steady drizzle that has soaked her fatigues and slickened everything outdoors since she began work at three o’clock that afternoon. The one thing that does concern her is that the paperwork [sic] stays dry. Shielding the checklist with her shoulders and using a flashlight, she continues writing atop her makeshift desk – her toolbox […].

Alone in the rain on a flightline at midnight, Jeannie Campbell looks the picture of isolation. But she isn’t. She and fellow members of Kadena’s 18 TFW, 313th Air Division (AD), those on duty now and those off duty asleep, know they form a close bond, a unity of purpose:

Readiness round the clock. They are also recognized winners, having recently been awarded the Daedalian Maintenance Trophy that distinguishes them as the best in the Air Force. When Campbell finally gets to bed, those pilots slated for the day’s first mission will be rising to meet early takeoff schedules. Campbell’s F-15, like those of her peers, will be waiting. And ready.”[20]

A row of F-15 Eagles, deployed from Kadena Air Base, Japan, for exercise Tandem Thrust 03, line up before takeoff April 24. The exercise is a joint endeavor conducted in the Marianas Islands including forces from the U.S., Canada and Australia. (U.S. Air Force photo by A1C Abby M. Young)

“Eagles Over the Pacific” offers a compelling juxtaposition of the maintainer and aircrew experience, providing unique perspectives on the F-15’s capabilities. The article also outlines the role of the aircraft stationed at Kadena AB and their critical contribution to the Pacific theater. It emphasizes the significance of their air superiority and deterrence missions, especially given that the Eagle had only recently arrived at Kadena AB prior to the article’s publication. For example, Brigadier General Thomas G. McInerny, then Commander of the 313 AD, stated:

“From here, our F-15s can drive quickly in any direction to protect American interests and those of our Pacific allies, nations with whom we have treaty commitments. The Eagles can swing north to Japan or Korea, south to the Philippines or Australia, and west to the Indian Ocean to protect vital oil routes. The airplane is a fine demonstration of the determination America shares with our Asian allies to deter foreign aggression.”[21]

There are many similarities between the experiences on Kadena AB’s flightline and in the air when comparing “Eagles Over the Pacific” to the operational capabilities of the 44th and 67th Aircraft Maintenance Units (AMUs) and Fighter Squadrons (FS) up until the F-15C/D divestment from Kadena AB began in December 2022. While the Air Force has become more focused on our Area Of Responsibility (AOR), specifically regarding keeping the Indo-Pacific region free and open for maritime trade, the core mission of Kadena AB—and what the Wing aims to accomplish in the Pacific theater—has remained unchanged. Brig Gen McInerny’s sentiments from 1982 align directly with the current 18th Wing mission: “To project decisive airpower to ensure regional stability and security,”[22] and they also resonate with the Wing’s vision of promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific through an Agile, Innovative, and Ready Force at PACAF’s premier AB.[23]

“It’s hard to see how any other plane could fly better… My first reaction to flying the F-15 will never diminish. It was the most awe-inspiring excitement of my life. The F-15 is a fighter pilot’s dream come true. It’s that good.”

– Capt Don Halley (44th TFS Flight Lead), “Eagles Over the Pacific” -1982

A1C Jeannie Campbell, F-15 Eagle Crew Chief. (“Eagles Over the Pacific.” Kadena, AB. March 1982. TSgt John L. Marine).

1982 & Beyond – Legacy & Divestment

Since 1982, Kadena AB’s F-15s and their attached squadrons have participated in a wide range of exercises, deployments, joint operations, and countless hours of alert status in response to foreign adversary threats. Their success in safeguarding the Pacific theater has been exceptional, earning consistent recognition for their outstanding contributions. Since the F-15’s arrival at Kadena AB, the 44 FS and 67 FS have collectively earned 35 Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards. ^{[24] [25]} Additionally, they have been awarded eight prestigious Raytheon Trophies, which recognize the top air superiority or air defense squadron in the Air Force—six of which were awarded to the 67 FS, more than any other squadron in the Air Force.[26] Notably, since the F-15 entered service, F-15 squadrons across the Air Force have won the Raytheon Trophy 37 times[27] a remarkable achievement that underscores the capabilities of the aircraft, the operators, and the dedicated maintenance personnel who support them.

The 18th Maintenance Group (MXG) has been consistently recognized for its outstanding contributions to air superiority in the Pacific, most recently winning the prestigious Air Force-level Daedalian Award in 2022. This award is presented annually to the wing-level Air Force unit with the best weapons system maintenance record for the preceding calendar year.[28] Kadena AB previously won the award in 1966, 1980, and 1983. After their 2022 Daedalian victory, the 18 MXG competed at the DoD level for the Phoenix Award for Maintenance Excellence and emerged victorious in 2023. The Phoenix Award honors the best field-level maintenance unit across the entire DoD.[29]

The 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (AMXS), one of the five squadrons under the 18 MXG and responsible for the F-15 Eagles at Kadena AB, played a critical role in securing these accolades. The squadron delivered 8,300 flight hours and 5,500 sorties while maintaining a 74% mission capable rate— 4% above the Air Force standard. Additionally, the squadron’s efforts culminated in the 2023 Air Force’s David C. Schilling Award for the most outstanding contribution to national defense in the field of manned flight. The 67 AMU also secured AMU of the Year honors in 2021 and 2022. From the beginning, Kadena AB’s maintainers have established a legacy of excellence that will endure and never be forgotten.

F-15s wait to depart on the first divestment wave. Kadena AB. Okinawa, Japan. December 1, 2022. (Photo provided by SrA Jessi Roth)

Concerns about the aging F-15 fleet and its eventual replacement with the F-15EX have been communicated by the Air Force for several years. In 2020, the Air Force acknowledged that most of the F-15C and D models “are beyond their service life” and that “readiness goals [for the aircraft] are unachievable due to continuous structural inspections, time-consuming repairs, and ongoing modernization efforts.”[30] At that time, the average age of the F-15C/D fleet was 35 years, with many aircraft having over 8,000 flight hours[31] (some of which were stationed at Kadena AB).

Discussions regarding the divestment of the F-15C/D from Kadena AB, along with the associated maintenance and scheduling preparations, began in early 2022. In November 2022, Brigadier General David S. Eaglin, then-18th Wing Commander, referred to the divestment as “the beginning of a significant journey for the 18th Wing… [that] will take us from where we are today to a better place in the future, where we will have modernized fighters here at Kadena to better protect our allies and ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.”[32]

The first divestment launch took place on December 1, 2022, involving 12 aircraft—five from the 44 FS and seven from the 67 FS. Their destination was either the Air National Guard (ANG) or the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), also known as the “Boneyard” at Davis-Monthan AFB.

The following ANG bases received Kadena AB’s F-15s: 104 FW (Barnes, Massachusetts), 142 FW (Portland, Oregon), 144 FW (Fresno, California), 159 FW (New Orleans, Louisiana), and 173 FW (Klamath Falls, Oregon). Much like the 18-ship movement from the US to Kadena AB in September 1979, the operators and maintainers of the 44 FS and 67 FS and AMUs overcame many challenges during divestment (due to sensitive nature of the divestment process, details regarding the movement of aircraft, personnel, and equipment, as well as the total number of aircraft divested have been omitted from the article). In addition to aircraft that were transferred to the Wings listed above, the divestment process also included demilitarization (the disassembly and disposal of aircraft structures and components) and the transfer of some aircraft to Ground Instructional Training Aircraft (GITA) status. Maintaining GITA capability allows the maintainers to remain proficient and train on aircraft systems and components while awaiting the arrival of the new airframe. Despite the challenges, the dedicated personnel of the 18 MXG, 44 FS, and 67 FS executed their tasks and the divestment timeline with exceptional professionalism, poise, and strict adherence to safety and compliance.

December 7, 2024

Aircraft 78-0483, Pre-Launch.
(Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen).

The cloud coverage and mist hovering over Kadena AB create a mixture of uncertainty, anxiety, and excitement among the maintainers and operators on the flightline, all anticipating the morning’s divestment launch and the departure of the final F-15 aircraft, 78-0483. The team has been working toward this moment for the past two years. Recently returned from Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM), 78-0483 has been reclassified following its PDM, and local tanker support is now aligned for the mission. The plan is for 78-0483 to depart Kadena AB and meet up with two F-15s that had previously departed in late November. The goal is to bring all the aircraft together for a final push to their new home at the 144 FW, Fresno Air National Guard (ANG) Base.

The significance of the date, December 7th, is not lost on those present. Eighty-three years ago, Pearl Harbor was attacked, and the United States was thrust into WWII. The gravity of this single-ship departure weighs on everyone, but as maintainers, the silence across the flightline is soon broken by jokes, shared memories, smiles, and laughter as everyone gathers on Spot 24 of the Upper Fighter Ramp for a Foreign Object Damage (FOD) walk.

After the FOD walk, MSgt Ben Alesse, 67 AMU Production Superintendent, gathers everyone around the aircraft. He ensures that everyone is aligned and clear on the sequence of events for the launch. With a deep sense of reflection, Alesse shares, “Kadena was my first duty station, the place where the Eagle’s roar became a part of my daily life, and now, it’s where their story ends. I know it’s a moment I’ll carry with me forever, a reminder that some duties go beyond the routine and become a part of history.” He encourages the team to reflect on the F- 15’s legacy at Kadena AB and take pride in their role in that history. The momentary silence is broken as the unit chants echo across the flightline:

“Bats Rule the Night… Damn Right! Cocks Rule… Period!”

MSgt Ben Alesse, Pre-launch huddle. (Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen).

Just as A1C Jeannie Campbell had them in 1982, the aircraft forms rest atop the Crew Chief’s makeshift desk—his toolbox. Maj Joseph “Rufio” Carrol, today’s pilot, methodically flips through the forms, verifying the exceptional release before proceeding with his walkaround of the aircraft. He climbs the ladder, settles into the seat, and straps himself in with assistance from his Crew Chief, SrA Paden Mendenhall. Mendenhall’s father, also an F-15 Crew Chief, spent much of his career at Kadena AB. When asked to share his perspective on the significance of today’s launch, SrA Mendenhall humbly replies, “I feel grateful to be a crew chief, continuing my father’s legacy as an Eagle Keeper. I’m also thankful to crew these jets and witness our work help close the chapter of the C-models and open a new one with the EX.”

With Maj Carrol strapped in, SrA Mendenhall steps back down the boarding ladder, takes his position at parade rest, and waits patiently.

Maj Joseph “Rufio” Carrol (Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen).

Maj Carrol extends his left arm, giving SrA Mendenhall a welcoming gesture—a signal that he’s ready. The Jet Fuel Starter (JFS), the heart of the F-15’s secondary power system, comes alive with a high-pitched whine that cuts through the flightline. Everyone’s attention is immediately drawn to the Eagle. With communication established and concurrence from SrA Mendenhall, Maj Carrol cranks up the number two engine, quickly followed by the number one. All systems are now up and running.

Unit shield for the 67th Fighter
Squadron. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Naoki Shimoji)

Maj Carrol performs his checks in the cockpit while the maintenance crew executes launch procedures. Landing gear pins are pulled, hydraulic systems checked and serviced, flight control surfaces oscillate, the speed brake extends and retracts, and the engine’s exhaust nozzles cycle. Everything looks good.

SrA Mendenhall is cleared off by Maj Carrol. He checks his tools, then moves to the front of the flow-through, waiting for the signal from Maj Carrol to pull the chocks. Across the runway, a KC-135 completes its own launch procedures. This tanker will provide 78-0483 with fuel on its journey to the CONUS.

After what feels like an eternity, the team receives word: The tanker is ready to roll.

Maj Carrol gives the signal to pull chocks. Seconds later, SrA Mendenhall signals Maj Carrol to advance the throttles and begins marshalling 78-0483. As the aircraft approaches the threshold of Spot 24, SrA Mendenhall ceases marshalling, assumes the position of attention, and renders a salute—a gesture steeped in military tradition, and on the flightline, symbolizing the transfer of the aircraft from the maintenance crew to the operator. F-15 78-0483 is now on its way.

Aircraft 78-0483 taxiing to the runway. (Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen).

Everyone present climbs into any available vehicle, and the procession makes its way down the taxiway to the edge of the runway. There, everyone exits their vehicles and lines up to witness the departure. Moments later, the roar of 78-0483’s engines fill the air as it screams down the runway. The Eagle is airborne, slicing through the sky above the onlookers, it fades into the distance, consumed by the greyish haze of Okinawa’s morning mist.

“Watching the F-15C take off is bittersweet, but it also marks a turning point, and I’m grateful to have been a small part of this iconic jet’s farewell.”

– MSgt Ben Alesse (67th AMU Production Superintendent)

Conclusion

The divestment of aircraft and transition to a new airframe or upgraded variant is nothing new to the Air Force. Kadena AB experienced this in the late 1970s with the transition from the F-4 to the F-15C/D, and the Air Force witnessed it again in the early 2000s with the development and roll-out of the F-22 and F-35. Today, we are witnessing it once more with Kadena ABs transition to the F-15EX. There’s no doubt that this theme will continue, long after we are gone. However, the F-15 has milestones that set it apart from its contemporary aircraft, moments that give one pause during this critical moment in its storied legacy.

Shield for the 18th Wing. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Naoki Shimoji)

In addition to its involvement in every major conflict since the Gulf War—including Operations Southern Watch, Provide Comfort, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom[33]—the F-15 has achieved incredible feats: landing with one wing missing,[34] shooting down a satellite,[35]and setting multiple time-to-climb records, including an impressive 98,425 feet in just 207.80 seconds.[36] With an air-to-air combat record of 104 victories and 0 losses, the F-15’s accomplishments speak for themselves. But perhaps its most remarkable milestone is that, unveiled in 1972, the F-15 is still operational today—over 50 years later. It remains relevant, needed, and ready for the challenges ahead. As the F-15EX arrives at Kadena AB, one thing is certain: The Eagle will continue to reign supreme in its domain.

As we reflect on the transitions and transformations of the F-15 Eagle, we must also honor the people who made it all possible. We pay tribute to the maintainers who laid the foundation for this legacy, like A1C Jeannie Campbell. We remember the arrival of the first wave of F-15s to Kadena AB on September 29, 1979. We document and communicate the efforts of Kadena AB Airmen as they divested 54 aircraft over the course of two years. We recall the words spoken by MSgt Alesse on December 7, 2024, and the storied departure of the last F-15C (78-0483) from Kadena AB. Through these actions and reflections, the people—just like the aircraft—will be remembered long after the next “Gathering of Eagles” in the Keystone of the Pacific.

Members of 18 AMXS gather in front of A81-0029. (Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen).

Afterward

67 AMU Avionics Technician, TSgt Vanessa Arroyo holding a photograph of A1C Jeannie Campbell. (Photo provided by SMSgt Ryan Cullen)

Jean S. Robancho, formerly A1C Jeannie Campbell (from “Eagles Over the Pacific”) served in the Air Force from June 12, 1980, to June 11, 1984. Following her assignment at Kadena AB, she was stationed at Luke AFB, she now works as an Executive Assistant and calls California home. Through email correspondence, Ms. Robancho shared the following:

“I am very proud to have been part of the 18 TFW winning the Daedalian Maintenance Award. Despite the challenges, I am extremely proud to consider myself a part of the F-15 Fighter Aircraft community. I would most definitely do it all over again if given the opportunity […].

The US military has always been an important part of my family. My father served honorably in the United States Navy (USN) for 22 years […]. My little brother served for 20 years in the USN, and a nephew served in the United States Marine Corps for five years. My family and I are truly grateful to the US military for all the opportunities it has afforded us.”

Aircraft 78-0483 (the final F-15C to depart Kadena AB) and its two wingmen were successfully recovered at Fresno ANG Base. In addition to utilizing GITA aircraft to maintain proficiency on critical maintenance tasks, Kadena AB aircraft maintainers have completed training rotations to the 159 FW in New Orleans for proficiency, touch-time, and skill-level upgrades on their F-15Cs. Starting in early 2025, Kadena AB maintainers began training alongside the 142 FW in Portland, Oregon, to preserve proficiency, maintain touch-time, and gain exposure and training on the F-15EX.

Prior to the start of the divestment process, the 44 AMU and 67 AMU, both under the 18 AMXS, merged into the 67 AMU. As a result, the 44 AMU suspended operations and will remain in a holding pattern until it is reestablished under the 44th Fighter Generation Squadron (FGS) and begins receiving the F- 15EX. The 67th was reestablished as an FGS on January 24, 2025, and is projected to begin receiving the F-15EX as early as 2026. The F-15EX will build upon the legacy of the C-model, ensuring continued air dominance in the Pacific theater with state-of-the-art technology, unmatched weapons capacity, and advanced software to stay ahead of adversary developments. While these changes will significantly reshape the 44 AMU, 67 AMU, 18 MXG, and 18 WG, the history of each unit and the pride carried by all maintainers and operators—past and present—will remain intact.

The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the US Government. 

Acknowledgements

A great many thanks to Dr. Joseph L. Mason, the 18th Wing Historian, for his invaluable assistance in providing documents related to the history of the F-15 and its arrival at Kadena AB, including copies of “Eagles Over the Pacific,” F-15 fact sheets, transcripts, and numerous other historical documents related to the development of the F-15 and its introduction to Kadena AB. I’d also like to thank the 18th Wing Public Affairs office for their assistance in reviewing and routing the article through the appropriate channels to ensure no sensitive information was disclosed. Finally, I’d like to thank Major Evan Hanson, who encouraged me to “keep writing.”

This article is written as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the F-15 at Kadena AB, its dominance in the Pacific theater, and the dedicated aviators and maintainers who have ensured its success over the years. As the era of the F-15C/D at Kadena AB draws to a close, it is important that we remember and honor the incredible contributions of these men and women. Through their efforts, the F-15’s history remains an essential part of Kadena AB’s legacy, and their work has paved the way for the future, as the F-15EX arrives to continue the tradition of excellence.

About the Author

SMSgt Justin Mirante currently serves as an Advanced Maintenance and Munitions (AMMOS) Instructor at Nellis AFB. Prior to his current position he served as the Sortie Support Superintendent for the 67 FGS, Kadena AB. Since joining the Air Force, he has dedicated ten years to maintaining the F-15 Eagle in USAFE, ACC, and PACAF. He is an Education with Industry (EWI) alumnus, and completed his fellowship with Delta TechOps in Atlanta, GA. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation maintenance and a master’s degree in leadership from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Works Cited

[1] Eagles at the Park – Veteran’s Memorial Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.veteransmemorialpark.us/node/1891

[2] The Feather: A Symbol of High Honor. (2023, January 10). Retrieved from https://blog.nativehope.org/the-feather-symbol-of-high-honor

[3] Eagles at the Park – Veteran’s Memorial Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.veteransmemorialpark.us/node/1891

[4] Ibid

[5] Roman Eagle (Aquila). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.unrv.com/military/roman-eagle-aquila.php

[6] Ibid

[7] Ibid

[8] Pugh, C. (1982). Eagles Over the Pacific. Reprinted by permission from the March 1982 issue of AIRMAN Magazine (AFRP 30-15) published by the Air Force Service Information and News Center (AFSINC), Kelly AFB, Texas.

[9] Kadena Air Base. (2022, August 24). Join us in celebrating 50 years of flawless air-to-air combat history! Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/KadenaAirBase/videos/join-us-in-celebrating-50-years-of-flawless-air-to-air-combat-historyteam-kadena/633566411495123/

[10] Ibid

[11] 71-0280 (YF-15A). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://skytrailer.nl/eagle-history/71-0280-yf-15a/

[12] Ibid

[13] Ibid

[14] Fact Sheet. (1981, July). United States Air Force. Secretary of the Air Force, Office of Public Affairs, Washington, D.C. 20330. 81-43.

[15] Ibid

[16] Ibid

[17] Ibid

[18] 10 Year Anniversary of F-15 Arrival. (n.d.). Retrieved from Kadena AB Historian (F-15 archived documents).

[19] Ibid

[20] Pugh, C. (1982). Eagles Over the Pacific. Reprinted by permission from the March 1982 issue of AIRMAN Magazine (AFRP 30-15) published by the Air Force Service Information and News Center (AFSINC), Kelly AFB, Texas.

[21] Ibid

[22] Kadena Air Base-Mission, Vision, and Priorities. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.kadena.af.mil/About-Us/

[23] Ibid

[24] Dollman, D. (n.d.). 44 Fighter Squadron (PACAF). Retrieved from https://www.dafhistory.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/434061/44-fighter-squadron-pacaf/

[25] Dollman, D. (n.d.). 67^th Fighter Squadron (PACAF). Retrieved from https://www.dafhistory.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/434038/67-fighter-squadron-pacaf/

[26] Raytheon Trophy. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://skytrailer.nl/exercises/raytheon-thropy/

[27] Ibid

[28] Hilton, G. (2023, June 16). 18th MXG wins AF level Daedalian Award. Kadena Air Base. Retrieved from https://www.kadena.af.mil/News/Article/3430484/18th-mxg-wins-af-level-daedalian-award/

[29] DoD Announces 2023 Winner of Phoenix Award for Maintenance Excellence. (2024, January 8). US Department of Defense. Retrieved from https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3637144/DoW-announces-2023-winner-of-phoenix-award-for-maintenance-excellence/#:~:text=The%20Phoenix%20Award%20is%20presented,of%20Kadena%20Air%20Base%2C%20Japan

[30] Wolfe, F. (2022, November 17). Appropriations Bills Provide $194 Million for F-15 Upgrades. Defense Daily. Retrieved from https://www.defensedaily.com/appropriations-bills-provide-194-million-for-f-15-upgrades/air-force/

[31] Ibid

[32] Waters, S. (2022, November 30). Team Kadena bids F-15 Eagle farewell as phased withdrawal begins. Kadena Air Base. Retrieved from https://www.kadena.af.mil/News/Article/3232738/team-kadena-bids-f-15-eagle-farewell-as-phased-withdrawal-begins/

[33] F-15Eagle. (2019, April). Air Force. Retrieved from https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104501/f-15-eagle/

[34] Leone, D. (2024, May 1). Israeli Air Force Fighter Pilot recalls when he landed his F-15 with One Wing Missing after a collision with an A-

[35] Vought ASM-135A Anti-Satellite Missile. (n.d.). National Museum of The United States of America. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/198034/vought-asm-135a-anti-satellite-missile/#:~:text=The%20anti%2Dsatellite%20missile%20countered,the%20missile%20at%2038%2C100%20feet

[36] McDonnell Douglas F-15 Streak Eagle. (n.d.). National Museum of The United States of America. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/197972/mcdonnell-douglas-f-15-streak-eagle/