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Flight Line Fest educates, entertains, endures

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Christian Michael
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  For the fifth year in a row, Flight Line Fest 2013 hosted U.S. and coalition forces, base personnel and local distinguished visitors to see up close the coalition and local weapon systems used at the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing.

Complete with an opening from 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Roger Watkins, live music by the U.S. Air Force Central Command Band, and static aircraft, Flight Line Fest 2013 was an opportunity for Airmen and non-service members alike to learn more about operations.

"Flight Line Fest is an annual event that gives U.S. service members, coalition partners, and our host nation the opportunity to learn more about our overall mission at the 379th AEW, how our service members enable that mission, and how we work together with our partner nations," said Lt. Col. James Malec, commander, 379th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron and event coordinator. "It started as an opportunity to foster positive and enduring relationships and to educate U.S. service members on the different missions each unit performs."

In addition to the aircraft from both local and coalition forces, wing agencies were on hand with daily-use equipment, such as a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, cargo K-loader and fuel truck. The security forces dog handlers also held several demonstrations with their K-9s.

"I will remember the K-9 demonstration, with their three handlers and their dogs. I had never seen them in action," said Staff Sgt. Sarah Weber, NCOIC of both 379th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron commander support staff and the Base Honor Guard. "I really enjoyed seeing the families and our coalition forces come out and enjoy the event as much as we did."

The event is one of the few events integrating both on-base and off-base personnel, and promotes intercultural understanding and boosts morale.

"We hoped to strengthen the U.S., coalition, and host nation relationships while providing insight to the service members who work here," Malec said. "We expected and received a great turnout and received a lot of great, positive feedback, mission accomplished!"