MAY 28, 2026 — Inside the engine shop at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, the sound of tools and sheet metal mark the end of a decade-long chapter in close-air-support history.
On May 21, 2026, Airmen assigned to the 355th Component Maintenance Squadron gathered with wing leadership to celebrate the completion of the final A-10 Thunderbolt II engine build at Davis-Monthan.
“Some, if not all these engines have saved lives on the ground through close air support missions, and some have carried pilots home while the other engine was damaged,” said Master Sgt. Eugene Rich III, the propulsion flight chief assigned to the 355th CMS…