“On a warm September morning in 2001, hijacked American Airlines Flight 11, in one of the most vicious attacks on American soil, shattered the tranquil routine of Americans working in New York as it crashed into the World Trade Center,” said Col. James B. Laster, commanding officer of The Basic School, Monday as he addressed the attendees of the dedication ceremony featuring the first Marine Corps aircraft used in support of the war on terrorism.

“Minutes later, the Pentagon was struck by American Airlines Flight 77. “In the wakes of these attacks, President Bush called on America’s 911 force to protect our nation’s capital,” said Laster.

Marines of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 321 reported to Andrews Air Force Base, Md., to protect the skies of the nation’s capital.

Lt. Col Robert Ballard, commanding officer of the squadron, flew this aircraft on the first Marine combat air patrol over Washington, said Laster. The patrol ran from Dulles International Airport to the Pentagon where he could still observe the efforts of the firefighters struggling to extinguish the blaze.

The squadron was deactivated three years later on Sept. 11, 2004. Lt. Gen. James F. Amos, commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, dedicated that F/A-18 Hornet at The Basic School.

“It stands as a silent reminder of the importance of the Marine Air/Ground Task Force,” said Laster. “Here at TBS, we teach the very concept that has proven so successful in Iraq and Afghanistan, just as it did here within our own borders.”

The F/A-18 was designed to perform two roles, as a fighter and as a light attack bomber.

“This F-18 is the reminder to every Marine that it takes all parts of the MAGTF to win a war,” said Laster. [ANN Salutes Sgt. Salju Thomas, MCB Quantico]

FMI: www.usmc.mil