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    Aviation mechanics keep NATO mission flying high

    BY, GERMANY

    12.04.2014

    Story by Sgt. Monte Swift 

    207th Public Affairs Detachment

    KATTERBACH KASERNE, Germany - Whether flying high over the green countrysides of Germany, or supporting combat missions in Afghanistan, U.S. Army helicopters and the missions they perform have become vital in military operations. However, like many military operations, it is often what happens behind the scenes that is the largest part of a mission’s success.

    For Soldiers of the 412th Aviation Support Battalion, Katterbach Kaserne, Germany, the maintenance they perform keep AH-64D Apache helicopters of the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade flying high in support of NATO missions throughout Europe, and U.S. combat operations worldwide. The ability to maintain and repair aircraft in a European venue offers U.S. Military and NATO allies convenient and fast air support in the face of escalating global conflicts. This foothold also offers an accessible rear base for battlefield repairs, or cycling point for battle-worn aircraft.

    “There is a need for Apaches everywhere,” said Staff Sgt. Jordan Bahe, quality control technical inspector, Bravo Company, 412th Aviation Support Battalion. “We try to ensure that they remain airworthy and get them back out as fast as we can.”

    Aside from performing advanced repairs, the Soldiers routinely perform phase maintenance checks of aircraft every 250 to 500 flight hours. This front-to-back teardown of the aircraft, which lasts approximately 30 days, allows mechanics to locate possible cracks in the airframe, damaged electronics and body panels, and ensure the aircrafts weapon systems function correctly. Though working behind the scenes, Bahe and his Soldiers understand how important their job is to the mission and take pride in seeing their efforts take flight after a long phase inspection.

    “I think the most fulfilling thing is when we do a 500- or 250-hour inspection and we ensure that the aircraft is ready to fly,” said Bahe. “The most satisfying part of my job is when it actually does fly, because you know that you tore it down and put it back together. It kind of gives you a sense of reassurance that ‘Wow, I created this.’ I tore it apart and put it back together and now it’s flying!”

    That in itself is no small feat when dealing with one of the military’s most advanced aircraft, but
    that hasn’t stopped Bahe from placing full confidence in his Soldiers. With many seasoned veterans working hand-in-hand with lower enlisted Soldiers, there is no shortage of mentorship within hanger number three.

    “This is a job that requires you to keep your head on a swivel. There are a lot of moving parts to an Apache, and things can go wrong very quickly,” said Bahe. “But these newer Soldiers are like a sponge, they soak it up, so teaching them gives you a good feeling. When they have questions, they ask. They really are true professionals.”

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 12.04.2014
    Date Posted: 12.11.2014 09:43
    Story ID: 150054
    Location: BY, DE

    Web Views: 157
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN