The Garudas of Electronic Attack Squadron 134 were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon Oct. 18 for their previous deployment to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan from April 1 to Aug. 2, 2004. The award recognizes outstanding performance in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, providing electronic attack support to ground forces as part of the global war on terrorism.

It is a rare occurrence to qualify for such an award, and the Garudas are one of only a handful of Prowler squadrons to receive such an honor. Unlike the majority of carrier-based Prowler squadrons, the Garudas deploy to land bases in combat zones where the threat of enemy fire is likely against ground personnel, as well as during aircraft takeoff and landing.

In preparing for such deployments to these forward locations, expeditionary squadrons undergo a training evolution called Operational

Readiness Assessment. During this week-long training, all squadronmembers learn the proper procedures and techniques to prepare against chemical, biological and conventional attacks.  Such procedures include learning the Alert Code system for a forward base, donning essential protective gear and how to apply the correct steps in resolving post-attack situations.

Regardless of the threat, VAQ-134 personnel performed admirably in the global war on terrorism. During the deployment, the Garudas flew over 350 sorties, totaling 800 hours with a remarkable 100 percent combat mission completion rate in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.