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OGDEN — For the first time, a fighter squadron from Hill Air Force Base has won what could be considered the Stanley Cup for pilots and the many personnel who support them.
The annual Raytheon Trophy is passed to the top flight squadron in the Air Force, judged on missions they participate in, inspection results, exercise participation, squadron achievements and individual achievements.
It was announced July 12 that the 421st Fighter Squadron, know as the "Black Widows," were awarded that prize for their service in 2023 — the first time it has been brought to Hill AFB and the first time it has been won by an F-35 squadron.
"Looking back, I'm proud we survived an intense and extremely challenging year as we were called to multiple events around the world," said Lt. Col. Nathan Heguy, 421st FS commander, in a prepared statement. "It is a testament to the professional capability and resilience of our aviators, maintainers and support personnel."
The squadron was sent on two rapid deployments, deterred Russian and Iranian aggression, and flew more than 2,300 hours of defensive counter-air and close air support missions, according to a Thursday press release.
They were sent to Europe on short notice for the first "extreme risk" combat mission for the F-35A, the release said. Squadron maintainers were given high praise for getting the aircraft prepped and ready to "operate in a highly contested environment" within a very short time of the deployment notice.
The squadron provided support on short notice for homeland defense missions throughout the year, while keeping up with "multiple large-force exercises, weapons system evaluations, dozens of training upgrades, (and) contributing to the refinement of F-35 tactics," according to the release.
"The trophy is difficult to win, and the fact that the Widows brought it to Hill is a testament to them and our entire team," said Col. Michael Gette, 388th Fighter Wing commander. "It's a huge deal."
The 388th Fighter Wing spokesman said the squadron expects to celebrate the award at an official ceremony soon.
