A ribbon-cutting ceremony to signify the official opening of Cargo City, located next to an aircraft parking ramp at Kuwait International Airport, marked a historic occasion May 19.

The opening of Cargo City successfully closes the United States Air Force and Coalition Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base gateway after over 20 years of operations.

Expansion discussions regarding Kuwait International Airport drove the Kuwait Air Force and U.S. Air Force to devise relocation plans for their bases. Though the discussions took many different forms over a 10-year period, the vision has come to fruition as an interim location until New Mubarak Military Base is built upon completion of the 3rd runway and corresponding military ramp.

Cargo City, although a temporary gateway, was designed to provide optimized capabilities, streamlining mission while continually sustaining one of the busiest military aerial ports in the Middle East for our joint and coalition partners, alongside our host nation counterparts.

The aerial port will continue to serve as a major military logistics point, functioning as the largest aerial port of debarkation in the Middle East.

"Cargo City is a direct reflection of the dedication, hard work, and determination from not only the airmen but soldiers, civilians, coalition and host nation partners," said Col. Adrienne Williams, 387th Air Expeditionary Group commander. "Together, we took a plan that has been in the works for over 10 years, a cement ramp built in 2012, and a neighboring seven-foot dirt hole and transformed it into a fully functioning gateway."

The 387th AEG, which falls under the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, provides Base Operations Support-Integrator for United States Central Command's Theater Logistics Gateway and largest Aerial Port of Debarkation. The group coordinates operations for over 2,000 joint, coalition, contractor, and host nation personnel from 16 separate organizations. As the senior United States military representative at Abdullah Al Mubarak Air Base, Kuwait, the 387th AEG maintains relationships and negotiates with host nation military and government leaders.

"The opening of Cargo City ensures we will continue to provide unparalleled theater support and decisive airpower," said Col. Patrick Schlichenmeyer, 386th Air Expeditionary wing commander. "This accomplishment is a shining example of our ability to work alongside our host nation, joint, and coalition partners."

To further increase capability, the 5th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron has relocated to provide maintenance, command and control, and aerial port operation support for Air Force and contract flights into Cargo City.

"It is truly spectacular to be part of this historic move, a move towards the future highlighting the progress developing all around us," said Williams. "The new location will continue to build upon our lasting friendships and bonds, ensuring the strong partnership between the United States and Kuwait for generations to come."