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Gearing up: 86th AW readies for mission at hand

Released: Feb. 27, 2003

By Airman 1st Robyn Dorocak
100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (USAFENS) -- The true meaning of hustle is currently being demonstrated across the 86th Airlift Wing here, as service members prepare for a possible contingency in the European and Central Command Areas of Responsibility.

Team Ramstein is working around the clock to support the commands with strategic airlift.

"We have shifted our focus to complete mission employment," said Lt. Col. J.R. Reid, 37th Airlift Squadron director of operations. "Our aircrew commitment has more than doubled. Our time was previously divided - 60 percent mission, 40 percent training. Now we are 100 percent devoted to our mission taskings."

The 37th AS operates and maintains the wing's fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft. These days they are carrying everything from material handling equipment - equipment designed to off-load aircraft, such as K-loaders - to people.

Reid said the Herk aircrews have been working steadily to ensure designated users, in various locations, receive the supplies needed to support Operation Enduring Freedom.

"Each branch of service is receiving some sort of support from our people," Reid said. "Whether it's the equipment or moving forward, our airlift is getting them there."

Every crewmember and support agency on Ramstein is stepping up to fulfill these requirements.

"There are missions moving day and night," Reid said.

All these flights couldn't happen without the skilled expertise of the maintainers. The 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron here is working on the aircraft to ensure readiness at anytime.

"There is definitely a need for timely maintenance," said Master Sgt. Thomas Woller, 86th AMXS, 37th Aircraft Maintenance Unit production superintendent. "Our main mission is to fix the aircraft, flying is the byproduct."

Woller said there has been an increase in maintenance requirements, yet the maintenance people are handling the workload.

"They're doing an excellent job," Woller said. "You feel a sense of accomplishment when you see an aircraft you just fixed go airborne to protect our freedoms."

"This is the time we need to focus on the mission," Reid said. "The demand for airlift here has never been higher. The young people who support every aspect of that mission are stepping up proudly to defend their country - and, doing it extremely well."