JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The 315th Airlift Wing Mini C-17 team at Joint Base Charleston is looking to add new members to its team to support one of the Air Force’s most popular community relations programs.
The "Spirit of Hope, Liberty & Freedom" may be small but it does a lot to represent the 315th Airilft Wing, the Air Force Reserve and the Air Force. Making appearances at everything from sporting events and parades to air shows and even the courtyard at the Pentagon, the miniature replica of the C-17 Globemaster III is always a crowd pleaser.
However, the mini-C-17 does not please the crowds by static display alone. The team, comprised of volunteers from 315th AW, travel alongside the mini-C-17 to numerous events spreading knowledge of the Charleston mission. And now they are seeking new members.
"Members of the mini team are often the faces of the 315th Airlift Wing and the Air Force Reserve to the community," said Senior Airman Tom Brading, 315th AW Public Affairs Community Relations. "As a member of the Mini C-17 team you'll be able to be an ambassador for the 315th AW and the Air Force Reserve. It's a very rewarding position and offers opportunities to travel and meet people from all over the country."
Master Sgt. Chris Fabel, 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, is one of the founding team members who also heralds volunteering with the mini-C-17 team as a rewarding experience.
"It's great fun," said Fabel. "You get to go out there with good people and meet lots of interesting folks. People are always asking questions – from children to grandparents."
Team members are responsible for maintaining the mini and displaying it.
Members of the team may assume the roles as mini C-17 driver or driver of the truck and trailer they take to various events. To become a member, candidates must fill out an application and have signed endorsements from their supervisor, first sergeant and their squadron commander.
"The job is mainly learned via on-the-job training," said Fabel. "When we get a request, we'll send out an email to all members to see who is available. If the team member is new, we like to send them out with other experienced team members until they feel more comfortable with the process. It really is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested."
For more information on the Mini-C-17 Team, please contact the 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs office at (843) 963-2036 or email Tom Brading at thomas.brading.1@us.af.mil for an application.