2nd SOS marks milestone accomplishments in readiness and lethality

  • Published
  • By Maj. Amanda Reeves
  • 919th Special Operations Wing
The 2nd Special Operations Squadron celebrated several important milestones during a ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 2.

The squadron, which operates a 24/7 MQ-9 Reaper mission, marked both its tenth anniversary since being re-activated and its achievement of 100,000 flying hours.

Since its reactivation in March 2009, the 2 SOS has overcome great obstacles, adapted to an ever-evolving mission, and proven itself to be a lethal force on the battlefield.

“No one can say the Scorpions fear change,” said Lt. Col. Brian Diehl, 2nd SOS commander. “In the past 10 years, we have moved a squadron across the country, converted airframes…and flown in every AOR currently served by Air Force Special Operations Command. We evolve better and faster than anyone. We’re built for it, we are diverse, representing best practices from the entire military community.”

As a Reserve unit, the 2nd SOS has been able to take advantage of the diversity of its Citizen Air Commandos by tapping into their varied experiences.

“Our diversity makes stronger,” said Diehl. “It provides strategic depth, and most importantly—it makes us lethal! The mighty 2nd SOS is stitched together with seasoned Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine, National Guard, and Regular Air Force veterans. We have seen it, we have done it and we are ready for more!”

Maj. Gen. Vincent Becklund, the deputy commander of AFSOC, spoke at the ceremony and highlighted the squadron’s contributions to the AFSOC mission.

“You are a critical part of our team,” said Becklund. “I have never once heard someone say that a mission was so critical that they would rather not have the 2nd SOS handle it. I have seen how well you all carry out your mission with the proficiency that makes you great.”

As an integral part of the Total Force, the 2nd SOS works around the clock to support AFSOC’s global operations.

“This unit works so seamlessly with the active duty component that I would never know you were a Reserve unit if you didn’t tell me -- you’re that good,” said Becklund.

Looking to the future, the 2nd SOS has no intention of slowing down and is eager to meet its next milestones.

“Make no mistake: while looking forward, we will remain fully engaged in our current fights,” said Diehl. “We will leverage all of our experience to lead our community, not only in restoring our Near Peer proficiency, but in expanding the envelope of capability.”