ADANA, Türkiye -- The U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye praised OSI Det. 522 Special Agents Dec. 12, 2023, for their role strengthening U.S. Consulate security in Adana during a time of regional tensions.
In all, U.S. Ambassador Jeffry L. Flake awarded personalized recognition certificates to 26 officers, Airmen and civilian employees for their performance and responsiveness, particularly in supporting the U.S. Consulate in Adana and the broader U.S. Mission to Türkiye between Oct. to Dec. 2023.
This heightened security focus, underscored by the collaboration between Det. 522 and the Adana Regional Security Office, or RSO, paved the way for Flake's visit to Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by an entity that represents both our nation and Türkiye,” said Special Agent Britany Miller, OSI Det. 522. “Our partnerships contribute to the defense of NATO’s Southern Flank.”
During his visit, Flake, alongside U.S. Consul to Adana Catherine J. Westley, acknowledged the roles of U.S. servicemembers and civilian employees to the operational readiness at the base, he said, further emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the U.S. Department of Defense and the Department of State.
“It is an honor to be the representative here and I’m proud of the relationship that we have with the Turkish government,” Flake said, in a news release. “Türkiye has been a proud member of NATO for now, 71 years and has contributed to NATO missions in the region.”
The commendation served as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the individuals involved. The ongoing collaboration between the 39th Air Base Wing (ABW) and the Turkish government was highlighted as crucial for the readiness and responsiveness of the forces stationed at Incirlik AB.
“This event demonstrated the success of strong communication, teamwork, and sacrifice by all parties, and it highlighted the importance of inter-agency partnerships,” said Special Agent Dillon Bunch, OSI Det. 522 senior enlisted leader.
Col. Robert Schoeneberg, the 39th ABW deputy commander, also attended the event.
“In the military, we do a lot of planning, training, and exercising to meet any challenge, because it’s difficult to predict exactly what situation will land on our doorstep,” Schoeneberg said, in a release. “Yet time and time again our incredible Airmen come together when they are called upon to act and demonstrate just how capable they are.”
The visit not only celebrated the achievements and collaborative efforts of the U.S. forces and their counterparts, but also reinforced the strategic importance of Incirlik Air Base as a key asset in the region, Miller said, underlining the commitment of the U.S. and NATO allies.
“Our Special Agents played a key role in protecting both our host wing and the American community in Adana,” said Col. Laura DeJong, OSI 5th Field Investigations Region commander. “Their efforts, along with those recognized, were vital for providing excellent Counterintelligence and Force Protection, ensuring the safety of our Airmen, Guardians, and assets.”
Related links
Ambassador Jeffry L. Flake recognizes exceptional Airmen and civilians at Incirlik Air Base
Bio: U.S. Ambassador Jeffry L. Flake