BOISE - The Idaho Air National Guard is joining the fight against ISIS - the so-called "Islamic State" group - in the Middle East.
A statement released by the Idaho Air National Guard Monday afternoon said more than 500 members of the 124th Fighter Wing - based at Gowen Field - will deploy this spring and summer.
The mission will include multiple aircraft, pilots, maintenance personnel, medical personnel, security forces and other support staff.
A National Guard spokesman said the departures will be spread out over the next several months.
in a written statement, Gov. Butch Otter said the deployment's impact on the community is recognized, and the sacrifice of the Air Guard members is deeply appreciated.
“This deployment highlights the dedication of the 124th Fighter Wing and its members, as well as the community of families, state and local leaders, neighbors and employers who have demonstrated once again their steadfast and unwavering support of Idaho’s service members," Otter said.