Maintainers integrated into Osan's operations

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Danny Rangel
  • 2nd Combat Camera Squadron
OSAN AB, Republic of Korea --  Service members in a deployed location often experience a new demand for team-building skills. Airmen from Hill Air Force Base's 388th Fighter Wing and Air Force Reserve 419th Fighter Wing recently deployed to Osan Air Base, South Korea, as part of a mission to strengthen American force abroad and improve relationships overseas.

These ammunition and avionics specialists joined with Osan's 51st Fighter Wing and both units worked quickly to get their aircraft fit for the fight.

Osan's 51st Maintenance Squadron commander Maj. Earl Williams says his Airmen are ready to integrate the new arrivals.

"I think it's a great thing we're able to bring fellow maintainers in to support an operation such as this," said Williams. "It's even better to bring them in during one of our Operational Readiness Exercises because they get a chance to shine."

The new arrivals also had to take part in a base-wide exercise involving personal protective gear, but their new co-workers were there to help them out.

Airmen from the two units do see some changes in their daily work schedules, but both sides say they're excited to work together.

"Glad to be here representing Hill Air Force Base," said Staff Sgt. Anna Kercher, 388th Equipment Maintenance Squadron armament maintenance team leader. "We're showing off our skills to Osan. Hopefully we'll get this mission done fast and get on home."

Although Hill's visiting Airmen said they needed time to adjust to a different shop and work environment, many of them have years of experience on the F-16 and coming into this deployment area. Their fighter experience from Hill was shared with the maintainers who are only stationed with the F-16s for one year creating a better team.

The Airmen from Hill AFB are part of a routinely deploy aircraft unit to the Asia-Pacific Region, providing Pacific Air Forces and the U.S. Pacific Command commanders a Theater Security Package in the region.