Prepping for 'game day'

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brittany A. Chase
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The Pacific Air Forces F-16 Demonstration Team, based at Misawa Air Base, Japan, arrived at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Nyutabaru AB, Nov. 29.


The PACAF F-16 Demo Team promotes positive relations between the United States and nations across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. The team includes one pilot, a safety observer, a narrator and a maintenance team composed of four crew chiefs and five specialists responsible for the aircraft's avionics and electrical systems and engines.


The team arrived days before the Nyutabaru Air Show to prepare and inspect all aspects of the demo team's F-16 Fighting Falcon, to ensure a flawless performance during 'game day.’


“We show early to set up the tools, look over the jet and wipe down the canopy to ensure the pilot has a clear view during his performance, which is paramount,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Steven Pedrick, a PACAF F-16 Demo Team crew chief. “Showing up early also gives us the opportunity to receive essential servicing equipment from our host such as nitrogen and hydraulic carts, pump the tires and complete other miscellaneous tasks, allowing us continue our ongoing partnership with Japan.”