5 AMXS hosts load crew of the quarter competition

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND, UNITED STATES

10.14.2016

Story by Senior Airman Kristoffer Kaubisch 

Minot Air Force Base

The 5th AMXS hosted a quarterly competition between the 23rd and 69th Bomb Squadron’s to showcase their attention to detail, teamwork and precision to maintain bomb loading proficiency.

A load crew of four Airmen represented each squadron to compete for the title of best load crew of the quarter.

“It makes our job more fun and challenging to have a competition between two load crews,” said Staff Sgt. Amanda Cannon, 5th AMXS weapons load crew chief and 29th BS load crew team chief.

The competition is comprised of four categories: dress and appearance inspection, a consolidated tool kit inspection, written test and the loading bombs onto an aircraft.

Months before the competition, the teams work together to perfect their skills.

“We practice, go over steps and ensure we are doing everything we are supposed to do,” said Staff Sgt. Eli Anderson, 5th AMXS weapons load crew chief and 69th BS load crew team chief.

Working as a team can make a difference during the competition. While some teams may practice together for months and others for only a few short weeks, they need to always be prepared to perform the job.

“Once you figure out your crew’s habits, patterns, strengths and weaknesses, you begin to work as a team and move fast and efficiently,” said Anderson. You know what your team is going to do and when they are going to do it.”

The quarterly competition allowed members to demonstrate their teamwork and skills in front of leadership and Team Minot members. It also allowed crew chiefs to showcase their capability of loading weapons in a sufficient and timely manner.

As the close competition came to an end, the 23rd BS, Load Crew Baron 4, were the victors and earned the load crew of the quarter title and trophy.

• Date Taken: 10.14.2016
• Date Posted: 10.21.2016 17:13
• Story ID: 212622
• Location: MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND, US