Colonel completes fini-flight in MIG killer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The former 2nd Fighter Squadron commander recently completed his fini-flight on the only aircraft at Tyndall with an air-to-air kill, a F-15C Eagle, serial number 79-0021.

Not only was it Col. Steven Burgh's final flight at Tyndall, but it was also the jet's final flight.

The F-15, piloted by 1st Lt. David Sveden from the 525th Tactical Fighter Squadron, shot down a Mirage F-1 aircraft Jan. 19, 1991 during Operation DESERT STORM.

"I was honored to fly the last sortie of an aircraft with such a rich history," the colonel said. "It's been the 2nd Fighter Squadron flagship for over a decade. The pilot who achieved the kill was one of my first instructor pilots in the F-15."

Colonel Burgh transported the jet to its new home at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

"It was tough to shut down the engines in the Boneyard, knowing that this great aircraft will never fly again," the colonel said.

While stationed at Tyndall, Colonel Burgh was responsible for more than one squadron.

"I was lucky enough to command two great squadrons, the 325th Operations Support Squadron and the 2nd Fighter Squadron," said Colonel Burgh. "My wife, Stacy, and I enjoyed every second of both commands and the span of control was just small enough where I had the chance to get to know everyone. There is not a better group of people to lead in the entire Air Force."

Leaving Tyndall was not an easy task for Colonel Burgh.

"One of the best parts about Tyndall is that you get to 'grow' new warriors," said Colonel Burgh. "Every day would involve some type of instruction, mentoring, or guidance to help develop young officers and NCOs. That's probably the part I'll miss the most."

Serving in the United States Air Force has been a continuous training and learning process for Colonel Burgh and his next assignment is no different.

"We are off to Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.," said Colonel Burgh. "I'll be in school for the next year."

Colonel Burgh has great expectations for the future.

"Wherever we go, I hope to provide effective leadership for the United States Air Force on the staff or in a command billet, "said Colonel Burgh.