OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Approaching his aircraft on Jan. 10, the dedicated crew chief glances around his maintenance arena, preparing to tackle his mission.
Tools and machines scattered in an organized chaos, he checks each wheel and panel ensuring this F-16 Fighting Falcon is ready to fight within the hour.
The pilot greets him and enters the cockpit, and the crew chief continues the preflight checks. Soon enough the pilot gives him a reassuring thumbs up.
He marshals the aircraft, swinging his arms in a high-intensity ballet, salutes the pilot and the F-16 takes off with North Korea in sight.
On Jan. 10, this U.S. F-16 and a Republic of Korea F-15K Slam Eagle flew with a B-52 Stratofortress from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, near the northern peninsula in response to North Korea’s recent provocative action.
Crew chiefs from the 36th Aircraft Maintenance Unit ensure the wing is ready to respond to any threat to the host nation through inspecting, refueling and marshalling the F-16s for flight.
“This standup shows that [the U.S. and ROK] can work together timely and efficiently,” said Staff Sgt. Todd Gilbert, 36th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief. “Whether it’s with the ROKAF, Kunsan (Air Base, ROK) or Andersen, we’re all in separate locations but we’re all supporting the same fight.”
Teamwork between the 36th AMU and other geographically separated units provides the global deterrence ability necessary during contingencies.
“It’s not very often that real-world situations happen, which is the main reason we’re stationed here,” he added. “To be a part of something that has a national focus feels very rewarding.”
The 36th AMU Airmen provide maintenance for the wing’s entire F-16 arsenal, all continuously maintained and inspected to respond to any aggression.
“This was no easy feat,” Gilbert said. “We worked a lot of extra hours, which could wear on a maintainer. While many were enjoying time at home, we were out on the flightline preparing for the worst.
“It was a tough weekend, but it was extremely gratifying to push the limits of what we can do,” he added.
Crew chiefs are the last avenue to ensure the pilots and aircraft are ready for takeoff, a responsibility not taken lightly according Senior Airman Kevin Schweiger, 36th AMU crew chief.
“This is where the trust between us and the pilots come in,” Schweiger said. “In the end, the mission has to get done, so you get to feel good about that.”
Even through the long hours and stressful environment, the 36th AMU crew chiefs continue to service the F-16 day-in and day-out, ready to respond.