Aircraft Ground Operations

Airmen engaged in aircraft maintenance and security training, depicted in operational settings that emphasize teamwork and technical skills.

Airmen from the Idaho Air National Guards 124th Maintenance Group replace an engine on the flight line at the Combat Readiness Training Center, Alpena, MI, June 15, 2022. Exercising the multi-capable airman concept, airmen from across the maintenance group are able to cooperatively accomplish tasks that might otherwise be reserved for specific shops.

Staff Sgt. Matthew Brown, 332d Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron response force member, instructs First Lieutenant Colleen Sullivan, 801st Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron maintenance officer in charge, and Master Sgt. David Dalton, 801st EMXS production superintendent, on aircraft defense tactics during airfield security operations training led by the 332d Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, April 5, 2022. The training focused on small team perimeter security, personnel placement for aircraft defense, and basic defense postures.

Staff Sgt. Robert Johnson, right, 736th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron C-17 Globemaster III crew chief, briefs Chaplain (Capt.) William Guy, center, 436th Airlift Wing chaplain and Tech. Sgt. Eric Feliciano, left, 512th AW religious affairs airman, on engine inspection areas during a 180-day home station check inspection being performed at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Oct. 11, 2022. During the Friends on the Flight Line visit, the Holy Roller van delivered drinks, sandwiches and snacks provided by the United Service Organizations, to aircraft maintainers in various squadrons under the 436th Mission Generation Group.

U.S Army Spc. Jesse Cheysobhen, CH-47 Helicopter Repairer assigned to Bravo Company, 3rd General Support Aviation Battalion, 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry ROK/U.S. Combined Division, points to a control panel during preflight operations on Camp Humphreys, Feb. 6, 2024. Cheysobhen explains different gauges to Republic of Korea Aviators during the ROK/U.S. Aircrew Exchange Program.

Airmen from the Idaho Air National Guards 124th Maintenance Group replace an engine on the flight line at the Combat Readiness Training Center, Alpena, MI, June 15, 2022. Exercising the multi-capable airman concept, airmen from across the maintenance group are able to cooperatively accomplish tasks that might otherwise be reserved for specific shops.

U.S. Air Force aerial porters and loadmasters prepare to load cargo onto a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 7, 2022. Polar Force 22-4 provided effective, flexible and capabilities-centered forces ready for deployment worldwide, and enabled real-world proficiency in response to a variety of crises.

Guardsmen with the Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Main Air National Guard train on installing a Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure System (LAIRCM) on a KC-135 aircraft at the 171st Air Refueling Wing near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sept. 8, 2022. The defensive system uses an infrared laser to protect against missile threats.

Master Sgt. Adam Krotz (left), 155th Air Refueling Wing boom operator, and Senior Master Sgt. Phil Lauer (right), 155th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron avionics superintendent, walk through the KC-135R Stratotanker performing preflight checklists, Sept. 6, 2022, Pardubice Airport, Czech Republic, during Ample Strike 2022. Participation in Ample Strike offers a great opportunity for our Airmen to train and hone operational and tactical skills with NATO Allies in dynamic and unfamiliar terrain and air space that is unavailable at home stations.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 476th Maintenance Squadron load munitions onto an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft during the fourth quarter weapons load competition at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Jan. 7, 2022. The quarterly load competition acts as a morale boosting event and allows load crews to showcase and sharpen their capabilities in rapid arming of A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft.

U.S. Air Force Airmen load cargo onto a C-17 Globemaster III from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, as part of Exercise Raging Gunfighter at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, May 17, 2022. Raging Gunfighter is an Air Combat Command (ACC) exercise designed to simulate the 366 FW operating as a lead wing from a remote environment.

1st Lt. Cody Durbin, an infantry officer with Company D, 1st Battalion, 168th Infantry Regiment, Iowa National Guard, tests as a Rappel Master inside a UH-60 Black Hawk at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Sept. 14, 2022. Nearly 30 Soldiers and Airmen participated in a Rappel Master course at Camp Dodge. The course was taught by a mobile training team from the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center in Fort Benning, Georgia.

SrA Angel Reyes, a student in the Basic Loadmaster Course, prepares to direct cargo into the static C-130 in an exercise at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, on April 13, 2022. The Career Enlisted Aviator Center of Excellence is the beginning of Undergraduate Flying Training for all enlisted aviators. The COE teaches a base level of aviation knowledge in Aircrew Fundamentals on aerodynamics, aircraft systems, safety procedures, publications, physiological responses to altitude and more to Air Force and international students in aviation career fields. Upon completion of Aircrew Fundamentals, Airmen progress to their higher level, specialized aircrew training. Specialized courses include Boom Operator, Flight Engineer, Aircraft Loadmaster, Airborne Mission Systems Operator, Flight Attendant and Special Missions Aviators courses.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman John Shobe, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron instructor loadmaster, prepares to open the door of a C-130J Super Hercules in preparation of a static-line jump for Cope South 2024, Feb. 27, 2024, near Sylhet, Bangladesh. As a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored bilateral tactical airlift exercise, CS24 involved multiple interactions with Bangladesh Air Force service members such as subject-matter exchanges in best-practices in operations, maintenance, medical and rigging career fields to strengthen relations and support the armed forces of Bangladeshs long-term modernization effort to maintain regional stability. Air Force

Members of the 114th Electromagnetic Warfare Squadron, Florida Air National Guard, operate a satellite at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, Jan. 8, 2023. The unit's federal mission is to deliver offensive counterspace and space situational awareness to rapidly achieve flexible and versatile effects in support of global and theater campaigns. They also provide mission-ready citizen-Airmen and equipment to Combatant Commanders in support of operations worldwide.

Crew chiefs with the 509th with the 509th maintenance squadron inspect a B-2 during Exercise Agile Tiger on Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri on April 4, 2022. Exercise Agile Tiger is designed to enhance our ability to communicate, collaborate, and operate with our joint service partners.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Travis Hall, a crew chief assigned to the 167th Airlift Wing, West Virginia Air National Guard, prepares to unload cargo from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft during the DEFENDER-Europe 22 exercise, May 23, 2022, in Kuressaare, Estonia. DEFENDER-Europe 22 is a multinational training exercise designed to demonstrate USAREUR-AFs ability to aggregate US-based combat power quickly in Eastern Europe across multiple theaters in support of NATO and the National Defense Strategy as well as to leverage host national capabilities to increase USAREUR-AFs operational reach.

Virginia Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to G Company, 429th Support Battalion, Task Force Red Dragon, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, join together with elements of the 5th Overseas Intermarines Regiment (RIAOM), French Forces in Djibouti during a joint training exchange at the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti, Jan. 25, 2022. The engagement offered the Soldiers an opportunity to observe operational techniques from their French counterparts, including, conducting logistical resupply, vehicle maintenance and fueling operations in a field training environment.

U.S. Army paratroopers from 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group from Stuttgart, Germany, jump out of a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft over Ramstein Air Base, Germany, May 25, 2022. Multiple Soldiers from Stuttgart, Rhine Ordnance Barracks, Panzer Kaserne and Fort Bragg, N.C., jumped during a large formation training mission to celebrate the 37 ASs 80th anniversary. Founded as the 37th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942, the 37 AS recently celebrated its 80th anniversary and has played a role in almost every major operation involving the U.S. and its allies since World War II.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 140th Wing Colorado Air National Guard unload equipment from an C-130J Super Hercules during Operation Thundercat at Pueblo Memorial Airport, Colo., Sept. 22, 2022. Operation Thundercat is a four day exercise that provides a simulated environment that allows Airmen to practice real-world war fighting capabilities.

Mr. Paul Dean, Department of State Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability, is given a tour of AGM-86 Air Launch Cruise Missiles (ALCMS) at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, Jan. 17, 2024. The ALCMS on display are used to train Airmen on how to load them onto the wings of B-52H Stratofortresses.

Tech. Sgt. John Radcliffe, an engine mechanic with the 157th Maintenance Group, inspects a suspend auxiliary power unit Sept. 28, 2022 at Pease Air National Guard Base, New Hampshire. The Airmen completed the first full replacement of an APU on a KC-46.

120713-N-FC670-039SAN DIEGO (July 13, 2012) Koa, an Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin, is transported in an MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HELMINERON) 14 during a Rim of the Pacific 2012 exercise. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC exercise from Jun.29 to Aug. 3. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC, provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971.

U.S. Marines with Battery A, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, perform tactical combat casualty care on a simulated casualty during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft Personnel course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 25, 2022. The TRAP course develops the Marines proficiency in recovery operations, enabling rapid, efficient, and safe recovery of personnel and equipment when necessary while forward deployedin the Indo-Pacific region.

Col. Michael Henderson, Arkansas Army National Guard Chief of Staff, receives final inspection for aerial gunnery familiarization during Annual Training at Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center June 14, 2022.

Staff Sgt. Steve Nelson, 155th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron mechanic, completes paperwork in the KC-135R Stratotanker for preflight checklists, Sept. 6, 2022, Pardubice Airport, Czech Republic, during Ample Strike 2022. Participation in Ample Strike offers a great opportunity for our Airmen to train and hone operational and tactical skills with NATO Allies in dynamic and unfamiliar terrain and air space that is unavailable at home stations.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Carlos Galvis-Rico, a crew chief assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing, Air National Guard, conducts preflight checks prior to launch during Coronet Cactus, March 29, 2023, at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The annual training event deploys members of the 149th Fighter Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, to another environment in order to familiarize them with accomplishing mission objectives in an unfamiliar location.

U.S. Airmen with the 378th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadrons Air Terminal Operations Center, push a multi-purpose tactical wheeled vehicle, onto a C-17 Globemaster aircraft, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 16, 2022. Air Transportation specialists are responsible for securely managing cargo and passengers and to ensure that everything and everyone on a military aircraft is transported safely and quickly.

Virginia Army National Guard Spc. William Orange and Spc. Courtenay Grayson of the 3647th Maintenance Company, 529th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 329th Regional Support Group, perform maintenance on a Modular Catastrophic Recovery System (MCRS) on July 14, 2022, during the eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC) exercise at Fort Drum, New York. The 3647th Co. is supporting over 2,500 Soldiers from the New Jersey, Virginia, and Massachusetts Army National Guards at the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Teams XCTC, a training event which enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win.

Staff Sgt. Dakota Liggettpage, 67th Aircraft Maintenance Unit weapons load crew team chief, inspects an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile during the 3rd Quarter F-15 Load Crew of the Quarter Competition at Kadena Air Base, Japan, July 15, 2022. The competition tests load crews abilities to load munitions in a safe, reliable, and timely manner.

Soldiers from the 3-157th Field Artillery Battalion conducted an emergency deployment readiness exercise (EDRE) on Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. Training included loading and unloading of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) onto a C-130 transport aircraft and finalized with a fire mission at UDAIRI ranges, Kuwait.

Air Force Master Sgt. Justin Staten, 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, directs Airmen carrying a mock casualty during a joint training exercise on board a C-17 Globemaster III at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Nov. 9, 2022. The 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and the 88th Medical Group Critical Care Air Transport Team conducted the training, simulating a live-flight environment where Airmen learn to prepare for challenges such as turbulence, changes in temperatures and air pressure, as they care for critically ill patients.

University of Washington ROTC cadets take pictures during a tour inside a C-17 Globemaster III at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Feb. 23, 2024. Team McChord opened its doors to the cadets, so they could have the opportunity to better understand the McChord mission and see how each Airman contributes to it. Air Force

Airmen from the Pennsylvania Air National Guards 193rd Special Operations Wing partner with the 1st Special Operations Maintenance Squadron to participate in a joint training exercise to lift an MC-130H on May 17, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This training event demonstrated the ability to perform an aircraft lift under circumstances where traditional equipment may not be available.

Master Sgt. Benjamin Sardon and Senior Airman Joshua Vasko, 911th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron communication and navigation systems technicians, troubleshoot a C-17 Globemaster III component at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2022. Maintainers conduct a variety of tasks to ensure aircraft readiness.

Members of the 815th Airlift Squadron and 908th, 514th, 932nd, 439th, and 514th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadrons conduct a pre-mission brief aboard a C-130J Super Hercules in preparation for an AE training mission in Ceiba, Honduras, June 12, 2022. (The training is part of a joint integration effort it Honduras, where the Airmen are working with local first responders and military members on various medical techniques and procedures.

220608-N-N3764-3003Caribbean Sea - (June 8, 2022) - Lt. Thomas Carpenter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28, Detachment 8, conducts a preflight inspection of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15), June 8, 2022. Billings is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force Souths mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

Airmen from the 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron and Marines stand outside of a C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron at Iwo Jima Airport, Japan, Aug. 4, 2022. The 36th AS and 374th LRS delivered fuel to assist Marines in establishing a forward aerial refueling point directly after landing, showcasing how aircraft can become self-serving in austere environments.

A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III from Joint Base Lewis McChord unloads cargo and Airmen participating in the Raging Gunfighter exercise at Hill Air Force Base, Utah May 17, 2022. Raging Gunfighter is an Air Combat Command exercise designed to simulate operating a Lead Wing from an Austere Environment. The purpose of this exercise is to prepare the 366th Fighter Wing for potential Agile Combat Employment (ACE) operations around the world.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Eliot Shapleigh, an F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot, prepares to board an F-16 during Exercise Ballast Cannon 24.3 at an undisclosed location in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Jan. 7, 2024. Ballast Cannon occurs nearly quarterly with the Royal Bahraini Air Force to support the U.S. Air Forces rapid expeditionary capabilities by integrating Agile Combat Employment objectives for F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-135 Stratotanker, and operational support personnel. The exercise allowed Total Force Airmen to generate unique solutions in austere environments.

Airmen assigned to the 4th Maintenance Group put a pin in a conformal fuel tank stand at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The 4th MXG designed new CFT stands to increase the supply of stands allowing them to become more efficient.

Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Eric Hady (right), an aircraft loadmaster assigned to the 103rd Operations Group, 103rd Airlift Wing, Connecticut Air National Guard and an Italian paratrooper jump master prepare for a jump during an airdrop mission, as part of Exercise Swift Response 22, May 11, 2022, in Pisa, Italy. Swift Response is a U.S. EUCOM scheduled, U.S. Army Europe and Africa conducted, and SETAF-AF led global exercise, focused on Allied Airborne forces' ability to quickly and effectively respond to crisis situations as an interoperable, multi-national team. Swift Response demonstrates U.S. and Allied force projection and high readiness interoperability in support of NATO Connected Force Initiative (CFI). Swift Response consists of Joint Forcible Entries (JFEs) into the Nordic, Baltics, and Balkans, followed by multinational training, and live-fire exercises.

Airmen with the 124th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron launch, recover, and perform routine systems checks on the A-10 Thunderbolt II, June 7, 2022 at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center. The 124th Fighter Wing is participating in Agile Rage, a guard bureau-led effort to execute on the Air Forces agile combat employment mission.

Airmen assigned to the 355th Logistics Readiness Squadron's Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants section, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, pack up the equipment used in Forward Area Refueling Point (FARP) training during Black Flag 22-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 11, 2022. As part of Agile Combat Employment, FARP training prepares Airmen to effectively refuel aircraft in austere locations when air-to-air refueling is not possible or when fueling stations are not accessible.

020924-F-2095R-014. Base: Louis Trichardt Air Force Base Country: South Africa (ZAF) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Idaho National Guard 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team's 2nd of the 116th Combined Arms Battalion teamed up with the Idaho Army National Guards 1st of the 183 Assault Helicopter Battalion to conduct medevac training at the Orchard Combat Training Center on March 30, 2022. The training simulated emergency evacuations of sick or wounded Soldiers from a battlefield. Ground medics preformed medical care on the ground before rushing them to the flight medics aboard the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter who continued medical care while they were flown to the nearby medical facility. This training is a portion of combat training the 2nd of the 116th CAB conducted in preparation to deploy to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Spartan Shield later this year.

Senior Airman Kevin Yung of the 127th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, loads GBU12 ammunition onto an A10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. Senior Airman Yung performed this duty as part of a training exercise on June 5, 2022 at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan.

Special Tactic Operators assigned to the 23th Special Tactics Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida, prepare for airborne operations at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, June 14, 2022 during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2. Approximately 1,600 service members from three nations participate in flying, maintaining and supporting more than 70 aircraft from over 22 units during this iteration of exercise.

U.S. Airmen Master Sgt. Roberto Requena, a crew chief assigned to the 139th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Missouri Air National Guard, installs a training magazine for the ALE-47 Chaff and Flare System, on a C-130H Hercules aircraft, while attending the Weapon Task Qualification Manager/Munitions Training Course, at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, in St. Joseph, Missouri, February 22, 2024. The WTQM course, taught by the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, includes training in the uploading of expendables in the ALE-47 Chaff and Flare Systems, as well as explosive safety, expendables operations, and practical flare loading operations, utilizing training munitions items on mobility aircraft. Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jarren Sheppard, a boom operator assigned to the 50th Air Refueling Squadron, offloads cargo at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, June 6, 2022. The Airmen returned home to MacDill following a six-month deployment where they were tasked to deliver coalition air power and support to secure and stabilize the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

020423-F-0675P-014. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Camp Justice, Masirah Country: Oman (OMN)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ben Schniedewind and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Caleb Nicola, loadmasters with the 9th Special Operations Squadron, 27th Special Operations Wing, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, prepare an MC-130J Commando II for a static-line jump mission during Emerald Warrior 22.1 at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 4, 2022. Emerald Warrior is the largest joint special operations exercise involving U.S. Special Operations Command forces training to respond to various threats across the spectrum of conflict.

U.S. Navy Corpsmen with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines and members of the Japan Self-Defense Force unload a simulated casualty as part of a medical evacuation rehearsal utilizing JSDF UH-1N Twin Huey during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.2 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Aug. 26, 2022. ARTP is an exercise held to strengthen the defense of Japan and the U.S.-Japan Alliance as the cornerstone of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force loadmaster from the 535th and 204th Airlift Squadrons (front), Airman 1st Class Jovanni Banuchi and Tech. Sgt. Josh Moracco, and Royal Australian Air Force loadmasters from 87 Squadron, Sgt. Ben Russell and Flt Sgt. Jay Johnson, guide equipment toward a C-17 Globemaster III May 12, 2022, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Aircrew members from each nation shared responsibilities on one anothers aircraft throughout training exercise Global Dexterity. The multinational training environment was permitted through an international proclamation known as the 'Interfly Agreement,' enabling bilateral crew members to operate together in the same aircraft.

Senior Airman Daniel Foster, 2nd Munitions Squadron stockpile management crew member, assembles a practice munition during WAMMO Fest at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, April 1, 2022. These quarterly events increase combat readiness and technical expertise through teamwork and competition.

A U.S. Airman assigned to the 48th Rescue Squadron prepares for the arrival of an MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle during Exercise Agile Angel at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., Feb. 20, 2024. The 48th RQS was trained to execute an integrated combat turn demonstrating the ability to establish and operate in-extremis and austere contingency locations. Air Force

Initial Military Training Aviation Bde

Tech. Sgt. Adrian Saetern, 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing Pacific APG regional training instructor, talks to Airmen during a C-5M Super Galaxy tire and brake change training at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 29, 2022. The purpose of the training was to ensure maintainers were qualified on new tasks and remained proficient on previously performed tasks.

Staff Sgts. Adam Borton (left) and Ryan Woolie, 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons load crew members, secure an inert guided bomb unit in a mock B-1 bomber simulator during training at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Aug. 13, 2013. In addition to initial training, all weapons loaders are evaluated monthly to ensure that they maintain qualification and proficiency in the handling and transportation of munitions.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade conduct an emergency deployment readiness exercise (EDRE) on Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, Oct. 8, 2022.

U.S. Army Sgt. Konner Case, a CH-47 helicopter repairer assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment, Mississippi Army National Guard, guides an ATV aboard a CH-47 at the Southwest Florida International Airport, Lee County, Florida, October 4, 2022. The 111th is deployed to south Florida to respond to the devastation of Hurricane Ian.

A. U.S. Army Trooper Spc. Richard Ellezy, a vehicle commander assigned to Killer Troop, Thunder Squadron, 3d Cavalry Regiment, aims a Mk. 19 automatic grenade launcher mounted to the Stryker vehicle at pop-up targets during a live-fire exercise at a remote location of the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California, May 27, 2022. The 3d CR and enabling units completed a month-long training exercise at NTC, certifying their ability to deploy to an austere environment and support American partners and allies in international conflicts.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 26, 2022) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conduct maintenance on a UH-1Y Huey helicopter from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265. Green Bay, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan D. Berlier)

020907-F-0362B-002. Base: Tbilisi Country: Georgia (The Country) (GEO) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Soldiers from Hunter Army Airfield, G.A., conduct a training flight over Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., May 20, 2022.The training provided soldiers with additional flight hours as well as an opportunity to view the depot from a birds eye view.

040914-F-3208M-018. Base: Naval Air Station, North Island State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Spc. Dekevion McNeal (left), automated logistical specialist, and Staff Sgt. John Rodriguez (right), motor vehicle transportation noncommissioned officer, both from 228th Brigade Support Company, 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force, adds transmission fluid to a M1083 medium tactical vehicle in the motor pool of the Drawsko Pomorskie Training Area in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, Sept. 1, 2023. BSC Soldiers attributed the success of the 13-hour convoy from Mainz-Kastel, DE, to the deliberate preparation and maintenance of their vehicles.

From left, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Barnes, 555th Fighter Generation Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of weapons loading, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jimmy Pruitt, 31st Maintenance Squadron wing weapons manager, load munitions onto an F-16 Fighting Falcon during a Rapid Aircraft Generation and Employment competition at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Jan. 5, 2024. The 31st Maintenance Group has hosted RAGE every quarter, where different sections within the group each compete on their respective aircraft.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Sebastian Romero with the 312th Airlift Squadron, pushes a pallet full of cargo from the back of a C-5M Super Galaxy at Maxwell Air Force base, Alabama, Jan. 7, 2023. Loadmasters from the 312 AS jointly trained with air transportation specialists with the 25th Aerial Port Squadron on various tasks such as using a next generation small loader to upload and offload pieces of rolling stock.

U.S. Air Force Airmen and Civilian Contractors inspect and take photos of Lift Aircrafts Hexa aircraft during Emerald Warrior 22.1 at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 3, 2022. Emerald Warrior provides annual, realistic pre-deployment training encompassing multiple joint operating areas. The exercise prepares special operations forces, conventional force enablers, partner nations, and interagency elements, to integrate with and execute full-spectrum special operations in an arctic climate, sharpening U.S. forces abilities to operate around the globe.

U.S. Army Warrant Officer Ronald Swenson, a mobility officer with the New York Army National Guard's 369th Sustainment Brigade, inspects a high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV), known as a Humvee, with a trailer after it was measured by the deployable automated cargo measurement system (DACMS), during annual training at Camp Smith Training Site, Cortlandt Manor, NY, July 19, 2022. The DACMS can rapidly record a vehicles length, width, height, weight, as well as number of axles and center of balance, eliminating the need for the driver to come to a halt, while measurements are being recorded, reducing measurement time from 15 minutes to 15 seconds.

From the left, U.S. Air Force Senior Airmen Johnny Ngo, Christopher Estrada and Staff Sgt. Jordan Zimmerman, 51st Munitions Squadron, build a 2,000-pound laser-guided bomb during a weapons load crew of the quarter competition on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, March 31, 2023. Load crew competitions promote a competitive environment where Airmen display their skills and abilities while competing against other teams.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. John D. Lamontagne, U.S. Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa deputy commander, conducts a munitions review at RAF Lakenheath, England, Feb. 24, 2024. The 48th Fighter Wing welcomed Lamontagne to the base where he received multiple mission briefs and tours of base facilities. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Airmen with the 60th Air Mobility Wing and 921st Contingency Response Squadron load pallets onto a KC-10 Extender aircraft during Exercise Dragon Spark at Travis Air Force Base, California, Oct. 13, 2022. Exercise Dragon Spark consisted of Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing and the 60th Air Mobility Wing who jointly-trained together on how to rapidly respond to a natural disaster or national emergency.

U.S. Soldiers from 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division offload equipment at Poznan, Poland, July 17, 2022. The 3/1 ABCT, and Finish and British army units trained in Finland to further strengthen the relations and interoperability between the nations.

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany - Airmen assigned to the 52nd Maintenance Group install an ejection seat in an F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 480th Fighter Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base in preparation for support of Operation Odyssey Dawn March 17. Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn is the U.S. Africa Command task force established to provide operational and tactical command and control of U.S. military forces supporting the international response to the unrest in Libya and enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1973. UNSCR 1973 authorizes all necessary measures to protect civilians in Libya under threat of attack by Qadhafi regime forces. JTF Odyssey Dawn is commanded by U.S. Navy Admiral Samuel J. Locklear, III.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgts. Chase Stoddard, and Erica Hancock, 8th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III loadmasters, secure cargo for transport during a combat airlift operation within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Jan.7, 2023. The C-17 is the most flexible cargo aircraft in the airlift force, capable of rapid strategic, and tactical airlift, and airdrop of troops and cargo.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Daemont Yates, a 492d Special Operations Training Group Detachment 2 loadmaster, closes the cargo door on a MC-130J Combat Talon II Sept. 29, 2022 at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Aircraft were repositioned at several different bases as a precautionary measure in preparation for Hurricane Ian.

Soldiers with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment, 44 Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Massachusetts National Guard, undergo a morale flight on July 16, 2022 on Fort Drum. More than 2,500 Soldiers are participating in the training event, which enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jade Moore, a fighter aircraft integrated avionics technician assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron, conducts a pre-flight check on an F-15E Strike Eagle at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, on Aug. 17, 2022. The Liberty Wing conducts routine training to enhance proficiency in flightline operations and maintain readiness.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Dawson Moore, left, Staff Sgt. Adrian Diaz, center, and Staff Sgt. Jarred DAmico, 22nd Airlift Squadron loadmasters, move a cargo winch on a C-5C Super Galaxy during an offloading of space equipment at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, Oct. 17, 2022. The offload was in support of the international satellite as part of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography mission to survey nearly all water on Earths surface.

110510-N-QP268-319MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 10, 2011) Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) perform routine maintenance on an M777 A2 Howitzer aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division fire an M2 .50 caliber heavy machine gun during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.2 at the Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, Aug. 22, 2022. The skills developed at ARTP increase the proficiency and readiness of the only permanently forward-deployed artillery unit in the Marine Corps, enabling them to provide precision indirect fires.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Thomas Farrington, commanding officer of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3 conducts a crew change over during the RQ-21A Blackjack final flight, Landing Zone Westfield, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 24, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMU-3 conducted the RQ-21A Blackjack final flight to recognize its four years of support to INDOPACOM, as VMU-3 transitions to the MQ-9A Reaper.

U.S. Air Force Band of Flight members from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Tech. Sgt. Joe Whitt, Flight One musical director, left, and Master Sgt. Greg Pfluch, Flight One NCOIC unload equipment in preparation of a concert that was part of a recruiting blitz at Holly High School, Michigan, Nov. 17, 2022. The Air Force Recruiting Service assembled several officers and enlisted Airmen from all over the nation along with the Air Force Rock Band, Flight One, to the Detroit area for three intensive days in local schools to tell the Air Force story and discuss Air Force opportunities.

220909-N-XN177-2213 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 9, 2022) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Morua, from Lampasas, Texas, assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) fast ropes out of an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) during a training evolution aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 9, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Smelser, 48th Logistics Readiness Squadron supervisor/ special handling, loads cargo at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 6, 2022. The yearly rodeo hosted by the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing assessed the skills and knowledge of approximately 60 Airmen, bringing together units from across US Air Forces in Europe and US Central Command.

U.S. Air Force 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Munitions Specialists load insert munitions onto an F-16 on Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, May 25, 2022. After conducting a hot pit refueling, the F-16 was loaded with inert munitions.

U.S. military personnel assigned to United States Central Command load critical supplies at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates, in support of a USAID-led humanitarian mission in Pakistan, Sep. 11, 2022. USAID leads the U.S. Government's international development and disaster assistance, helping people emerge from humanitarian crises, such as the catastrophic flooding currently plaguing Pakistan.

Members of the Florida Army and Air National Guard inspect emergency equipment during Hurricane Ian state activation, Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla, Sept. 27, 2022. Florida National Guard's Chemical, Biological, Radiological/Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) - Enhanced Response Force Package (FL-CERFP) was activated as part of a statewide hurricane response. National Guard components from neighboring states, including Georgia, have joined forces to ensure the safety of Florida residents. ( U.S. Army photo by Sgt. N.W. Huertas)

U.S. Air Force Airmen offload fuel from the C-17 Globemaster III into a fuel truck at North Auxiliary Airfield, North, South Carolina, in support of the U.S. Marine Corps Composite Training Unit Exercise, Jan. 27, 2022. The exercise is a combination of multiple units and commands preparing to conduct military operations at sea, project combat power ashore, and deploys the nations crisis response force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Diana Cossaboom)

U.S. Marine forward observers with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, prepares to assist in close air support operations on Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 2, 2022. 1st ANGLICO practices CAS exercises to ensure the Ground Combat Element and the Air Combat Element are in sync and ready to accomplish mission tasking around the world.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, signals a corpsman during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 12, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Austin Sondergard, 605th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, performs pre-flight checks on a KC-10 extender at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. on Oct. 10, 2022. Sondergard received brain surgery to remove an arteriovenous malformation, and later suffered losses to both memory, speech, and motor skills due to a stroke. Recovered, Sondergard returned to his duties as a Crew Chief and hobby as an avid powerlifter.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Austin Wollenberg, 60th Aerial Port Squadron air transportation specialist, secures a K-loader onto a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, at Travis Air Force Base, California, March 8, 2022. Team Travis 60th Aerial Port Squadron integrated with the 4th AS to transport a K-loader to support the US. Navy in a F-35C Lightning II recovery mission.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, and 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery, 173rd Airborne Brigade load onto a U.S. Air Force C-17 in Aviano, Italy for a flight to Agadir, Morocco in support of U.S. Africa Commands Exercise African Lion 22, Wednesday, June 21, 2022. African Lion 22, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, is U.S. Africa Commands largest annual exercise focused on increasing training and interoperability between the U.S. and partners and allies in Africa.

Soldiers with the Florida National Guard's (FLNG) 1-111th Aviation Regiment practice sling-loading techniques, attempting to bring heavy machinery to islands affected by Hurricane Ian on Saturday, October 1, 2022. As Hurricane Ian left a path of destruction, some of Florida's Southwest islands were left without a proper route to the mainland, enabling specialties of FLNG aviators to deliver much-need supplies.

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin watches as U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Omar Salas, assigned to Alpha Battery, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, demonstrates the loading procedure for the M109 Paladin howitzer during a congressional visit at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, July 8, 2022. The 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

A 31st Fighter Wing F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot receives a handshake from a member of his flight crew at Aviano Air Force Base, Italy, after returning from supporting Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn, March 20. Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn is the U.S. Africa Command task force established to support the larger international response to the unrest in Libya. A broad coalition of nations are partnering to enforce U.N. Security Council Resolution 1973, which authorizes all necessary means to protect civilians in Libya under threat of attack by Qadhafi regime forces. JTF Odyssey Dawn is commanded by Admiral Samuel J. Locklear, III.

010925-F-3961R-008. Subject Operation/Series: INFINITE JUSTICE Country: Unknown

Major General Pedro Varela, Head of the Chilean Mission in the United States, is briefed on the 147th Attack Wing Missions at Ellington Field, April 14, 2021. Chile is one of Texas's State Partners in the National Guard's State Partnreship Program. General Varela was briefed on the missions of the three TXANG Wings.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph Cristi, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, carries a ladder away from a 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker wing while training at Kadena Air Base, Japan, April 12, 2022. 18th CES firefighters searched for unaccounted personnel during a simulated cockpit or engine fire to test their rescue and recovery capabilities.

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