Maintainers keep Galaxies, Globemasters flying through Iraq

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Sanjay Allen
  • Air Component Coordination Element-Iraq Public Affairs
AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq --  Maintainers with the 521st Air Mobility Operations Group, Det. 5, have kept on their toes maintaining C-5 Galaxies and C-17 Globemaster IIIs passing through Iraq, ensuring they are in "tip-top" shape to keep servicemembers and cargo moving through safely.

"We've got C-5s coming in here and we're making sure they're getting out of here in tip-top shape," said Senior Airman Douglas Osman, an engine specialist with the 521st AMOG. "We're providing reliable aircraft to all downrange missions and getting cargo to people who need it."

Over the third quarter of this year, Airmen here have maintained more than 120 C-5 and C-17 arrivals and departures per month, that have moved more than 42,000 passengers and nearly 8,000 tons of cargo.

The purpose of the 521st AMOG's two geographically separated units at Al Asad and Joint Base Balad are to reduce the need for maintenance recovery teams -- teams formed at another base to deploy and repair a non-mission capable aircraft. Typically these teams deploy from outside Iraq.

"These guys here can fix an array of maintenance issues, so we don't have to call another set of people in to fix it," said Capt. Amy Wilkins, the 521st AMOG, Det. 5 commander. "They can get the mission moving out a lot faster than it would be if they had to send troops and supplies in from the states."

The team is formed with crew chiefs, engine, hydraulics, guidance and control, electrics, communication and navigation and supply specialists. They make sure aircraft coming sit on the tarmac for an extended period of time, and keep cargo and passengers moving throughout the theater.

"My crew here is motivated, highly trained and proud to serve their country," said Master Sgt. Alvin Buenaventura, the 521st AMOG, Det. 5, production superintendent. "We've had a lot of aircraft to work on here at Al Asad during this time, but everyone performed their duties well, especially in the extreme environment."

The maintainers here see the fruits of their labor everyday as servicemembers and equipment come through aboard these giant aircraft and their job satisfaction is overwhelming.

"It's a humbling experience," said Airman Osman. "It's pretty awesome to see all the equipment that we're taking out of here and helping all our Soldiers get back home safe and sound. I couldn't ask for any other job. It's an awesome job."

The feeling of pride in what they do, combined with the importance their mission, resonates to the top of the detachment's chain with Captain Wilkins.

This is an awesome mission because they're keeping people and cargo moving through the theater.