Aircrew flight equipment unit supports operations, wins big

  • Published
  • By A1C Christopher Gross
  • JBER PAO
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --   Pilots often receive all the glory for the missions they conquer, however if it wasn't for the crews who ensure the aircraft and pilot's gear are safely equipped, these missions wouldn't be possible.

The 517th Aircrew Flight Equipment unit here takes pride in inspecting the gear that allows crews to fly their everyday missions.

"We handle their safety gear; we're responsible for their lives. (If) something goes wrong with the aircraft they have to (rely on) our gear to help keep them alive," said Tech. Sgt. Michelle Davidson, NCO-in-charge for the National Guard side of the shop.

The flight consists of 16 Airmen - 14 active duty and two National Guard. Those with the guard fall under the 176th Operation Support Squadron.

Davidson said the shop cohesion is unbelievable and the Airmen work hand-in-hand to accomplish the mission.

Senior Airman Anthony Boustead said he finds his job to be rewarding because he knows the equipment that is on the aircraft and the equipment the pilots take with them is going to make them feel safe, and could one day potentially save their lives.

Boustead and the other 15 Airmen are responsible for approximately 180 pilots from the 517th Airlift Squadron and 249th Airlift Squadron combined.

Airmen provide pre-flight and post-flight inspections on aircraft, installing or fixing any gear on board. Flotation devices, parachutes and oxygen equipment, like the quick don mask, are some of the gear they are responsible for.

This flight is also responsible for doing post-flight inspections on a pilot's gear; things like helmets, oxygen mask and communication checks.

If their gear is not used for some time, most of the equipment has a mandatory 30-day or 90-day inspection period.

It's important that the Airmen accomplish these tasks in a timely manner, which can many times be a demanding job, to keep their customers pleased, Davidson said.

Their hard work shows.

During this past year, whether individual or as a shop, the unit has pulled in approximately 20 different awards.

They were also the only aircrew flight equipment flight to receive an "Outstanding Team Award" during the 3rd Wing Unit Compliance Inspection in October.