Lt. Col. Tony McConnell, of Murfreesboro, and Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Batson, of Louisville, Tenn., unfurl the 1-107th Aviation Regiment’s colors in a ceremony on Aug. 4 to signify the start of its mission in Afghanistan.

The Tennessee Army National Guard unit from Smyrna trained throughout the past year to take over the mission of running two international airports with more than 13,000 aircraft movements per month.

Murfreesboro’s Lt. Col. Tony McConnell is battalion commander and Senior Airfield Authority for Tarin Kot and Farah airfields.

“We trained our soldiers to ensure they’re physically, mentally and administratively prepared for every aspect of our deployment, McConnell said, “and we’re ready to tackle the tasks that lie ahead.”

 “We will grow as a unit and continue to improve these airfields during our year in Afghanistan,” he added, “and when we leave here we’ll hand over to someone a spot of ground worthy of flying the Stars and Stripes!”

Multinational Base Tarin Kot is a major supply point for U.S. and coalition forces in the Uruzgan Province of Southern Afghanistan. It is home to U.S, Australia, Singapore, Slovakia and Afghan Forces. Their combined efforts strive to set the stage for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

 “The opportunity to command this organization is a privilege,” McConnell said. “Working with soldiers, sailors and airmen from around the world to accomplish a common goal is an incredible experience and something I’ll long remember.”           

The 1-107th provides airfield management and air traffic control services for Tarin Kot and Farah, Afghanistan.