An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Civic leaders train with 315 AW

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Bobby Pilch
  • 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. --  Civic leaders and employers of Reservists came from various areas of the state to experience a day of training with Airmen assigned to the 315th Airlift Wing, Joint Base Charleston, S.C. Feb. 12, 2012.

Visitors started the morning by attending a welcome and mission briefing by Col. Steven Chapman, 315 AW commander, and then headed to the flight line to board a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, where they would take flight and experience aerial refueling (AR), and a cargo air drop.

"It is an honor to host local leaders and employers who support our Airmen and showcase the skills and training we practice on a daily basis," said Col. Chapman. "Without their support, we could not execute our missions."

In addition to aerial training, visitors were given a mission briefing and experienced what it is like to be a reservist.

Steve Clemmons, director of owner services with Century 21Thomas Myrtle Beach, S.C., described the experience as "phenomenal and fantastic."

"This is very enlightening and worth the trip," said Clemmons as he boarded the C-17.

"I am utterly amazed and impressed," said Andy Rankin, director of investor relations with the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. If you are an employer of a Reservist and have the opportunity to shadow their military work location, it is highly suggested to do so. "This is a chance of a lifetime and you're crazy if you do not," said Rankin.

Reservists must adhere to the same training and qualifications as their active duty counterparts and most accomplish these tasks while working a full-time, civilian job.

"It was a special experience to allow the public to see the training and that it is second nature to these Reservists who also have full-time jobs," said Jason L. Ward, county administrator for Dorchester County, S.C. "It makes you feel secure and is comforting to know that we have individuals serving in the Air Force with this level of enthusiasm. It is confident and engaging to us."

The final hour of the mission consisted of aerial refueling training and showcased the C-17's ability to maintain its presence in the air for an indefinite length of time and continue the mission.

"This type of training is critical and vital," said Tech. Sgt. Jonathan White, a loadmaster assigned to the 317th Airlift Squadron here. "It saves time and saves lives."

After finishing aerial refueling, training was complete and visitors returned to Joint Base Charleston with a better understanding of the roles Reservists play in the day-to-day operation of our nation's military and the skills acquired while serving.

"It's an awesome opportunity to share with members of the community what we do when called to serve," said Sergeant White. "The expressions, excitement and child-like curiosity is an awe-inspiring event, making lifetime memories for all."