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ROCK SOLID WARRIOR

  • Published
  • 386th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Staff Sgt. Jason Wicklund

Hazardous Materials technician

Home unit/base: 60th Aerial Port Squadron, Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

How do you support the mission here? I support the mission providing anything the warfighter needs down range. Since our arrival here, our workcenter have delivered 4,000 tons of ammo in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and 32,000 tons of cargo supporting force sustainment. I also support the 386th ELRS by assuming the duties of the Weapons Safety monitor. It is my responsibility to ensure that all explosive related operations are completed in a safe manner.

How many times have you deployed and what makes this one unique? This is my third deployment, the two prior being at Balad Air Base, Iraq. This deployment is unique because this was the first deployment I've been on since being a staff sergeant. Since I have vast experience in moving cargo, I was placed in a position to lead and teach Airmen on my shift how to prepare and document cargo for movement. This task has proved to be both challenging and rewarding. I think the increased authority and responsibility has enabled me to thrive and grow. I have realized that I have much to learn from those around me, but this step into the noncommissioned officer ranks will be as rewarding as it is challenging.

How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base? My job differs from home station because of the unusual characteristics of the cargo that arrives here, such as its condition. When cargo is received at my home station, it has been prepared by individuals that ship cargo for a living. Cargo is prepared here by the users themselves, and sometimes they have no idea what the process is, so we teach them how to prep it. We also coordinate with other service transportation units who do not always use the same processes as the Air Force. We fill the gap by helping them ensure their cargo is properly prepared in accordance with Air Force regulation.