Unit returns from deployment following a first-of-its-kind mission

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – A small but enthusiastic group of supporters at the Santa Barbara airport greeted members of the 216th Space Control Squadron, who made their return here Feb. 13. They were met by cheers and welcome home signs along with smiles and hugs and tears from family and friends. But for members of the 216th, being home is a reward unto itself, along with the knowledge they achieved mission success and the remarkable accomplishment of being the first space unit deployed for the Air National Guard. The 216th is based out of Vandenberg AFB, California. The unit returns home from a six-month deployment oversees supporting combatant commands on a first-of-its-kind mission. The mission of the 216th is to conduct offensive and defensive space control and space situational awareness taskings to rapidly achieve flexible and versatile effects in support of global and theater campaigns. Next up for the 216th is two days of reintegration processing at Vandenberg Air Force Base, along with some needed rest and relaxation. The squadron is part of the California Air National Guard’s 195th Wing, located at Beale, Air Force Base. The Wing, made up of seven squadrons and six operating locations, is spread across over 543 miles throughout the state. The 195th Wing is a group of integrated professionals who manage a diverse mission-set which includes not only space but also cyberspace, intelligence and combat communications.