HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- As 2025 comes to a close, we're taking a look back at a year filled with remarkable accomplishments for the Airmen of the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base. From innovative maintenance solutions to critical global deployments, our team has demonstrated excellence and a steadfast commitment to the mission.
Unprecedented Innovation: The F-35A “Franken-bird” restoration project
What better way to break ground on the new year, than with a groundbreaking achievement? In a first-of-its-kind project, maintainers successfully restored a single F-35A Lightning II to full operational status by combining structures from two separate, damaged aircraft and restoring all of it's critical systems. This incredible feat, completed in January with the partnership of Lockheed Martin and the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, highlighted the dedication and innovative spirit of the 388th Maintenance Group.
Honing the Edge: Advanced training and exercises
Throughout 2025, the wing sharpened its combat capabilities by participating in complex joint-force exercises. In February, the 421st Fighter Squadron deployed to Bamboo Eagle 25-1, refining tactics in large-scale scenarios. This was followed by a regional Agile Combat Employment (ACE) exercise in May, where Airmen practiced operating the F-35A from dispersed and austere locations, proving their ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere.
Wing welcomes new leadership
This year the wing welcomed new leadership as Col. Thomas Hayes became the deputy commander. Shortly after, in June, the wing welcomed new commander, Col. Charles A. Fallon, and new command chief, Chief Master Sergeant Joshua A. VanDerbeck.
Rude Rams play pivotal role in Middle East operations
Demonstrating global reach and dominance, Airmen from the 34th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron played a crucial role during a six-month deployment to the Middle East. In Operation Midnight Hammer on June 22, 2025, their F-35As were the first to penetrate contested airspace, neutralizing enemy air defenses and escorting strategic bombers. The wing also participated in Operation Rough Rider in Yemen, conducting air strikes and recording the F-35A's first air-to-air victories against hostile drones, proving the platform's multi-role capabilities.
Strengthening alliances in the Pacific
In 2025, the 388th Fighter Wing was instrumental in bolstering the U.S. presence in the Indo-Pacific. Both the 4th and 421st Expeditionary Fighter Squadrons completed deployments to Kadena Air Base, Japan, arriving in the spring and fall, respectively. These rotations are vital for ensuring regional stability, providing opportunities for integration with our allies and partners, and deterring aggression through a ready and capable force.