Photo By Airman 1st Class Mattison Cole | U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Travelstead, 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron...... read more read more
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MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan - From bright and early in the morning to late in the night, the B-1B Lancer and its aircrew soar in the sky, working with allies to deter aggression. Aircrew operates anytime, anywhere to defend U.S. interests and support U.S. allies. Who verifies that aircrew's equipment is operable and up to par for these missions?
The unsung heroes of the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron aircrew flight equipment prepare all the essential equipment needed by the aircrew, such as PCU 15P harnesses and HGU 55P helmets. While following all safety precautions during equipment inspections, they confirm it is mission-ready while being timely and precise.
"AFE ensures the safety of aircrew members during flight operations," said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Eric DeLaMater, 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron aircrew flight equipment supervisor. "This includes providing life support systems such as oxygen masks, survival vests, and parachutes, which are essential in case of ejection or emergencies. Properly maintained and equipped aircrew flight equipment ensures that aircrew members can perform their duties effectively and respond to emergencies without delay. AFE is essential for the protection, readiness, and effectiveness of aircrew members in the U.S. Air Force."
Missions like Bomber Task Force 25-2 play a vital role in showcasing military strength, building strong alliances, and demonstrating unwavering resolve. The primary goal of BTFs is to deter aggression and uphold peace and stability both in the region and globally. Without the aircrew, the B-1B Lancer wouldn't take flight, the mission wouldn't be carried out, and without AFE personnel, the mission couldn't even begin.
"Flyers rely on critical flight gear for mission success, and AFE ensures our gear is properly maintained, repaired, and preflighted before every flight," said Maj. Daniel Sessions, 9th EBS pilot. "Their attention to detail guarantees our gear works every time, locally or at higher headquarters. The trust they've earned allows me to do my job to my highest ability, knowing my gear won't fail when I need it most."
Working together, AFE personnel make certain that the 9th EBS aircrew is always ready to respond, guaranteeing that crews are highly trained and fully prepared to defend the U.S. homeland and collaborate with allies worldwide.
| Date Taken: | 04.20.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 05.05.2025 16:38 |
| Story ID: | 496531 |
| Location: | MISAWA AIR BASE, JP |
| Web Views: | 22 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Behind the Flight: AFE powers BTF readiness, by A1C Mattison Cole, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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