15 Jun 2010

Mother commissions son from across the globe

Perhaps the biggest challenge of any deployment is the separation from family and friends and missing those momentous occasions in life such as a son's first word, a daughter's high school graduation, a 20-year wedding anniversary or family reunion.While a military member's time downrange can't be cut short so they can attend these milestone

11 Jun 2010

Vehicle operator traverses Iraqi streets to deliver vital supplies downrange

While most people lie asleep in their beds, he must remain awake and vigilant. Hands grasping the steering wheel of the 18-wheeler carrying vital supplies for fellow troops downrange, his eyes are intent on the road ahead. He knows the importance of his mission and getting there on time, safely. This is just another day in the U.S. Central Command

10 Jun 2010

Contracting officers procure the 'goods' downrange

A truck slowly pulls up next to the awaiting vehicle, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake. The occupants exit the vehicles, eager to finalize the deal. After a brief discussion, the goods are placed in the truck and payment is made. Both parties shake hands and go their separate ways. While it may sound like a backroom deal straight out of the

5 Jun 2010

Loadmaster superintendent ensures troops, cargo deploy downrange

With the U.S. military's support of two war fronts, to include a major drawdown in Iraq and buildup in Afghanistan, airlift support of troops and supplies in and out of the war zone is critical.This is where C-130E/H loadmasters such as Master Sgt. Gregory Keels, 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron superintendant, come in."My primary focus is the

3 Jun 2010

Senior NCO promotes safety mindset

Each year, the U.S. Air Force's annual "101 Critical Days of Summer" safety campaign commences with Memorial Day weekend and concludes after the Labor Day holiday. This time is intended as a period of increased awareness during the summer season when higher rates of off-duty accidents and fatalities historically occur.While the number of accidents

28 May 2010

Civil engineer entertains troops downrange

Surrounded by a sea of darkness, the 28-year-old Airman is well aware of the hundreds of eyes tentatively watching his every move. He has been in this situation many times before, but somehow this time feels different. With quiet composure, he plays the opening notes to the classic rock hit "Bohemian Rhapsody," his adorers joining his melodic

25 May 2010

Weather technician keeps aircrews, Airmen safe

Whether it's high winds, lightning, overcast skies or rain, the weather can have a major impact on military operations, especially for units with flying missions.Weather experts, such as Staff Sgt. Kimberly Cribbs, 386th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron weather technician, are especially vital in the U.S. Air Forces Central Command area of

21 May 2010

Protecting the force

(EDITOR'S NOTE: Senior Airman John Dwyer recently completed his rotation and redeployed to his home unit).Escorting workers and observing behavior while safeguarding personnel and assets are tasks that are 'all in a day's work' for force protection Airmen throughout the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility.Those assigned force protection

19 May 2010

Air Force LNOs move assets by sea

When it comes to moving U.S. Air Force assets, most people assume by air is the natural way to go. With thousands of aircraft in the Air Force's fleet, which includes hundreds of cargo planes, it may seem like the logical choice. But when it comes to oversized equipment, high costs and weight restrictions sometimes make transportation by sea vessel

17 May 2010

Security forces NCO safeguards base, Airmen

Charged primarily with providing protection for Airmen and assets, security forces members take their duties seriously; they must because they are required to use a proportional amount of force -- up to deadly force -- to perform their mission.Security forces Airmen with the 387th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron here spend most of their