2-185th Airfield Operations Battalion transfers authority to 1-58th AOB during TOA ceremony

The 2-185th Airfield Operations Battalion, Mississippi National Guard, transferred authority to the 1-58th AOB, Fort Novosel, Alabama, on Feb. 15, 2025, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.



By Spc. Michaela Maldonado Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa Camp Lemonnier, Djbouti Feb 18, 2025
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CAMP LEMONIIER, Djibouti – The 2-185th Airfield Operations Battalion, Mississippi National Guard, transferred authority to the 1-58th AOB, Fort Novosel, Alabama, on Feb. 15, 2025, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. 

Their responsibilities to Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa include providing air traffic control and airfield management functions to four airfields across East Africa. 

They played a key role in maintaining and developing airspace CJTF-HOA's area of responsibility. U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Brian Cashman, CJTF-HOA commanding general, presided over the transfer of authority ceremony and addressed the 2-185th AOB.

“Tactical and strategic support to operations and across East Africa were significantly enhanced,” said Cashman. “Because of your commitment, diligence, and leadership.”

Cashman highlighted the key contributions of the 2-185th AOB to CJTF-HOA during their time in the Horn of Africa.

“Directly supporting 28,978 aircraft movements in Kenya and Somalia, and 269 ground- controlled approaches to Manda Bay, Kenya,” said Cashman. “In coordination with the Somali Civil Authority, your efforts developed a mutually beneficial Host Nation Agreement for airfield and ramp management at the Mogadishu, Baledogle, and Kismayo airfields.”

Since June 2024, the 2-185th AOB has provided critical support to the CJTF-HOA mission, which is to enhance regional stability and strengthen relationships with partner nations through various collaborations to improve and increase airfield operations across the HOA. Their efforts have extended beyond Djibouti to outstations across Africa.

Cashman also thanked the soldiers of the 2-185th AOB for their hard work and efforts as their time came to a close and welcomed the 1-58th AOB to assume authority.

Charged with continuing combat readiness and providing support, the 1-58th AOB is vital to advancing the goals of the CJTF-HOA mission. This deployment reflects the U.S. military’s enduring commitment to promoting stability, security and collaboration in the region, safeguarding local communities and strategic interests. Building on the groundwork laid by their predecessors, the 1-58th AOB will address regional challenges, foster partnerships with host nations, and enhance airfield operations.

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