Key Spouses: Seeing how the other half lives

  • Published
  • By Chief Mast Sgt. Duke
  • 908th Airlift Wing
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  Members of the 908th Airlift Wing Key Spouse organization visited several squadrons and facilities during the June UTA.

 "The intent of the tour was to demonstrate how the
different squadrons complement each other for mission success. No one squadron is more important than any other", said Senior Master Sergeant Martha Roy, Force Support Squadron Superintendent, and Key Spouse wing representative.

The tour first stopped at the 908th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (photo below), where Chief Master Sgt. Patrick Weir, Chief Enlisted Manager of the 908th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, explained how the C-130 aircraft can be turned into a flying hospital, capable of transporting up to 50 litter patients and 24 ambulatory patients with injuries ranging from slight to severe.

"I was so impressed with the medical capabilities of this plane. It is a comfort to know Chief Weir and his people are there to get the wounded home," said Amy Negrete.

Next, the group made a stop at the 357th Airlift Squadron. Chief Master Sgt. James Rickels, Loadmaster Superintendent (photo above), discussed the many capabilities of the aircraft, whether transporting personnel, cargo, or a combination of the two. Videos displayed the wing's air drop capabilities, from pallets to soldiers of the U.S. Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga.

The tour then stopped at the 25th Aerial Port Squadron, where Master Sgt. J.D. Ballentine, Aerial Delivery Shop Manager, gave a brief on how pallets are built, fitted with parachutes and loaded on the aircraft.

"I had no idea we could drop everything from water bottles to trucks from these planes," commented Trinette Edge.

At the Fuel Cell Hanger, Staff Sgts. Jarrett Johnston, Kendall Williams and Bryan Renforth, representatives of the 908th Maintenance Group explained the various changes and modifications in the aircraft over the past few years, as well as an overview of the various maintenance shops and their specialized functions. The tour ended after each Key Spouse had a chance to enter the cockpit and practice a few "dry landings."

"Seeing the different squadrons independently is one thing," said Michelle Bruce. "Coming on board the plane and seeing how all the pieces actually fit together gives you a much greater appreciation for what our family members are doing when they come to UTAs or deploy."