STAFF SERGEANT THOMAS R. BRISTOL V
Staff Sergeant Thomas Bristol is a dedicated crew chief for the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, based out of the 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah. He is responsible for all maintenance and flight inspections, ensuring the safety of flight for the F-35A used in the demonstration. The mission of the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration team is to showcase the unique aerial capabilities of the Air Force’s most advanced 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter, the F-35A Lightning II, as well as highlight the history of the Air Force’s service through heritage formation flights. SSgt Bristol is responsible for any F-35A scheduled maintenance and inspections and ensuring its safe flight and performance during the airshow season.
Sergeant Bristol grew up in Meridian, Idaho and entered the Air Force in October 2017 as a Tactical Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice. He has performed numerous duties as a crew chief, to include Dedicated Crew Chief and Blended Operation Lightning Technician. His assignments include bases in Texas, Florida, and Utah, and has deployed in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and ATLANTIC RESOLVE.
EDUCATION:
2017 Basic Military Training, Lackland AFB, TX
2018 Tactical Aircraft Maintenance (Cold) Training, Sheppard AFB, TX
2018 Tactical Aircraft Maintenance (Hot) Training, Eglin AFB, FL
2019 Aviation Maintenance Technology, Community College of the Air Force 2021 Airman Leadership School, Hill AFB, UT 2023 B.S. in Aeronautics, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. October 2018 – June 2021, Assistant Dedicated Crew Chief, 421st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Hill AFB, UT
2. June 2021 – January 2022, Dedicated Crew Chief, 421st Fighter Generation Squadron, Hill AFB, UT.
3. January 2022 – Present, Dedicated Crew Chief, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, Hill AFB, Utah.
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
Air Force Commendation Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 1 oak leaf cluster
Air Force Meritorious Unit Award with 2 oak leaf cluster