MIDDLETOWN, Pa. -- MIDDLETOWN, Pa. – A formation of multiple MC-130J Commando II aircraft from the 193rd Special Operations Wing flew over Central Pennsylvania Sept. 11, 2025, for a dual mission: to complete required training and honor the lives lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks on America. Operation Never Forget was conducted as part of a force-generation exercise, designed to test the wing’s ability to launch a fleet of MC-130Js quickly and effectively. This training comes as the 193rd SOW continues transitioning its mission to the MC-130J Commando II.
“To ensure we remain ready and stay at the forefront of future operations, we must continue to prepare, plan and execute missions of this nature,” said Col. Robert Noren, 193rd SOW commander.
During Operation Never Forget, Airmen demonstrated their ability to rapidly respond, proving they can remain mission-ready anytime, anywhere. This exercise required participation from numerous aircraft operators, maintainers and support personnel all contributing to the launch.
“We’ve never conducted a launch of this size here,” said Col. Eric McKissick, 193rd SOW vice wing commander. “Completing this launch successfully showcases our ability to stay mission-ready and focused.”
While the event was part of routine training, the date carried with it deep significance.
“September 11, 2001, is a date etched in our collective memory, a day that symbolizes resilience and remembrance,” said Noren. “On September 11, 2025, we executed a remarkable formation, showcasing our unity, strength and capabilities. This event marks a pivotal milestone in our journey as we look to the future with determination.”
In a briefing to Airmen before the flight, a 193rd SOW pilot on the mission remarked, “I want you to think (about) what spurs you to action, what spurs you to do not only your service to the country, but the way you see the flag, the way you serve it … not only today, but with your family and your community. Today we get to embody that.”
This 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks brought reflection from both those who served on that day and the wing’s newer members who weren’t yet born.
“I remember watching the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks from our wing,” said a loadmaster here participating in the training, who has served in the military ever since. “We deployed shortly after.”
Airmen from across the base, representing a variety of Air Force specialty codes, came together to celebrate the successful launch while honoring the heroes and lives lost on 9/11.