Tuesday, May 30, 2006 • LHS grad commands Special Operations Unit in Iraq

Major Darrin “DB” Dronoff, a 1986 graduate of Lassen High School, is currently commanding a Special Operations unit at an undisclosed location in Iraq.

Dronoff assumed command of the 716th Expeditionary Squadron in March 2006 and will continue to serve as its commander for several more months.

Dronoff’s current home when not deployed is Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, where he is part of the Headquarters Staff at Air Force Special Operations Command.

Dronoff’s squadron is responsible for conducting specical ops missions throughout Iraq utilizing a variety of specialized aircraft.

Some of the aircraft Dronoff’s troops utilize are the MH-53 PAVLOW helicopter, AC-130U SPOOKY Gunships, and the MC-130 Combat SHADOW aircraft.

When asked about his mission Dronoff doesn’t hesitate to talk about the many fine men and women who make up his unique team of military professionals.
“None of what we do here would even be possible if it wasn’t for the skilled and incredibly proud maintainers and support personnel who put in 12-plus hours a day, seven days a week to ensure these birds are ready to fly at a moment’s notice,” said Dronoff. “I am honored to be their commander.”
Because of the continued sensitivity of their mission he can’t go into many details, but he does say from the almost daily mortar attacks to the immense sand storms, the experiences gained here will provide many “There I was” stories for years to come.

As for the missions his team conducts he says, “Just watch CNN.”