May issue of Airman available

  • Published
SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) --  Read about how Airmen at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., and other locations protect America’s interior; take a look at the new Air Force basic training; and learn about Airmen who maintain lesser-known bases throughout South Korea. These features and more highlight the May issue of Airman magazine, now available in print and online at www.af.mil/news/airman.

Embracing Korea -- Miles away from the nearest Air Force base, a handful of Airmen learn to live among the South Koreans -- eating Asian food, living in off-base apartments, using public transportation -- so they can equip forces during times of crisis. Getting an assignment to a collocated operating base is not for the faint of heart, but the people who work at these locations are not standard Airmen.

Eyes on the Skies -- During the Cold War years, a group of Airmen huddled around radar scopes keeping their collective eyes on the U.S. borders for signs of intruders. Because of Sept. 11, 2001, these Airmen at Tyndall AFB and other locations now keep their focus inside the borders.

Warthog’s Fini-flight -- When an A-10 Thunderbolt II flying over Baghdad was seriously damaged, these aircraft maintenance medics responded. They did what they could, but the aircraft’s existence still lies in the balance.

Aiming High Academically -- From the Air Force Band studios at Bolling AFB, D.C., to the rugged survival school at Fairchild AFB, Wash., 17 people with doctorate and other professional degrees are among the enlisted ranks. They are following on the heels of others, and more Airmen are behind them.

A New Intensity -- The war on terrorism and a global commitment to defend the nation’s interests demand a new intensity for Air Force basic trainees. A series of tough new challenges in basic training is helping prepare Airmen for life in the air and space expeditionary culture.