'FOX and Friends' shines spotlight on Wright-Patterson AFB

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WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) --  Television viewers who watched the FOX News Network's "FOX and Friends" morning program June 8 gained insight into the diverse mission of Air Force Materiel Command and the Air Force.

With a C-5 Galaxy serving as his backdrop, "FOX and Friends" co-anchor Brian Kilmeade broadcast multiple live segments worldwide during the two-hour program. 

The segments took place along the flight line near the Air Force Reserve Command's 445th Airlift Wing. One of many tenant units at Wright-Patterson AFB, the wing flies the C-5 to provide strategic transport of personnel and equipment as well as aeromedical evacuation.

In one segment, Air Force Research Laboratory commander Maj. Gen. Ted F. Bowlds showcased devices developed by AFRL personnel who are saving warfighters' lives and reducing injuries. Among them were the BomBot, a low-cost, remote-controlled truck that resembles a radio-controlled toy. However, this robot is capable of carrying a small charge that an operator can send across terrain to disarm an improvised explosive device.

General Bowlds also explained how the lab has reduced the weight of gear carried by ground forces. By using fuel cell technology, AFRL reduced the weight of batteries carried by troops by 30 percent, or 23 pounds.

The general also offered a glimpse at two projects that eventually may play a more prominent role. One was a rifle-type device that uses laser technology in a non-lethal way that could stun an enemy. Another involves looking at ways an Airman could simultaneously operate multiple micro unmanned aerial vehicles for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

In another interview, Mr. Kilmeade spoke with Lt. Col. (Dr.) Mark Cucuzzella about the upcoming U.S. Air Force Marathon. Wright-Patterson AFB will host the 11th Air Force Marathon Sept. 15. Colonel Cucuzzella, who was the 2006 overall winner of the Air Force Marathon, took the opportunity to encourage fellow athletes to sign up and help marathon organizers reach a goal of 10,000 runners.

"FOX and Friends" closed at Wright-Patterson AFB with Mr. Kilmeade speaking with Gen. Bruce Carlson, commander of AFMC. As Mr. Kilmeade marveled at the size and capability of the nearby C-5, he asked General Carlson about the need to recapitalize the Air Force's aging aircraft.

Referring to the average age of today's aircraft in the Air Force, General Carlson said, "We wouldn't drive a 24-year-old car, say, at the Indianapolis 500. So we're working very hard to modernize the equipment in the Air Force to ensure the next generation has the proper equipment to fly, fight and win."

Wright-Patterson AFB was the third Air Force stop for "FOX and Friends" as part of the program's Salute to the Troops Tour.

(Courtesy of Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs)

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