The low hum of engines reverberates through the desert air, carrying with it the weight of history and pride. At Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, the 2024 Hawgsmoke competition comprised of 13 teams was more than just a showcase of aerial skill, September 11-15—it was a moving moment of reflection and tribute to the legacy of the A-10 Thunderbolt II.
For over 40 years, the Warthog, with its distinctive shape and unparalleled close air support capabilities, has been a stalwart protector of troops on the ground. As the U.S. Air Force moves forward, modernizing its fleet and phasing out the A-10, this year’s event, hosted by the historic 47th Fighter Squadron, is not just a competition—it’s a chance for the A-10 community to come together and honor a living legend.
![Legacy Secured: 47th FS, A-10 Triumph at Hawgsmoke 2024]()
