JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
An aircrew representing the various airlift capabilities of the 437th Airlift Wing attended Air Mobility Command’s 2017 Rapid Global Mobility Airpower Orientation at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland on March 31.
Nearly 49 congressional staff members representing legislators from across the United States attended the demonstration showcasing AMC’s capabilities.
“Many Congressional staff members haven’t ever seen this aircraft in person, so this gives them a chance to get a first-hand look at what we really do and to truly understand why it’s important.” Lt Col Fez Flores, Director of Operations, 437th Operations Support Squadron. “That can be helpful for us because when our generals go before Congress to request resources, they’ll have a better understanding of why we need things.”
437th AW subject matter experts (SME) demonstrated some of the unique capabilities of the largest C-17A Globemaster III wing in the AMC, including the Transportation Isolation System - a system used to quarantine patients infected with contagious diseases. The SMEs also demonstrated aeromedical evacuation procedures, which allow service members to receive in-flight medical attention, no matter where they are on the globe.
“By touring the aircraft they were able to see some of our capabilities and get a better sense of our mission,” said Flores. “Aeromedical evacuation allows us to get patients from anywhere in the world to Germany or the United States to receive care. With the TIS, we’re able to transport patients even if they have infectious diseases.”
Flores feels by allowing the Congressional staff members to see these missions up close and meet with the crews to ask questions, they can gain a better understanding and appreciation for Air Mobility and the important role it undoubtedly plays every day, for our nation.
“Rapid global mobility often gets overlooked because it’s not as glamorous as fighter jets, so people don’t realize how important it is,” said Flores. “Getting things overseas requires the Air Mobility Command. It’s always such a great experience to show people how much of an impact we have on all operations around the world. It’s rewarding when they realize just how valuable we are.”