445th LRS performs annual tour in Italy

  • Published
  • By Maj. Demetrius Smith
  • 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Reservists from the 445th Logistics Readiness Squadron performed their annual tour at Aviano Air Base, Italy, June 13-25, 2014. The Airmen worked side-by-side with their counterparts from the 31st Fighter Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron.

The 31st LRS was happy to get the manpower due to many of their LRS members being deployed or off supporting a Red Flag exercise.

Lt. Col. Joseph H Savage Jr., 445 LRS commander, was excited to show what the members of his unit could do.

"Our LRS team was very much looking forward to working on systems, equipment, and tasks that they seldom get to do at Wright-Patterson (Air Force Base). They were also eager to show their capabilities to the active duty force and demonstrate that they are indeed a very capable part of the Total Air Force," Savage said.

During their annual tour, 445 LRS Airmen worked in fuels, supply, vehicle maintenance, vehicle operations, quality assurance, plans, and TMO. Being embedded with the active-duty unit for two weeks was an exciting opportunity to put their training to work.

Tech. Sgt. Monique Tester, 31st LRS supply flight stated, "The flight is severely undermanned due to the Red Flag exercise but I feel confident the work will get caught up with the help of the 445th LRS members."

For many in the 445th LRS it was a nice opportunity to put their skills to work while also learning from one of the busiest units in the Air Force.

Tech. Sgt. Dorenia Bennett said she welcomed the challenge of learning the 31st LRS supply flight's processes. Along with Senior Airman Justin Marlin, both learned how to inspect F-16 Fighting Falcon parts used heavily at the base.

Staff Sgt. Luke Zimmerman, 31st LRS flight services center, said it was important to inspect the parts to ensure they have enough for each repair cycle. The fuels team worked on fueling autos, fighter jets, and helicopters, which presented a unique opportunity they won't soon forget.

Senior Airmen Jamecia Haygood and Tyler Sexton enjoyed their traffic management office rotation. Under the guidance of Mr. Franco Cancian, an Italian national in the 31st LRS TMO, the Airmen learned how to conduct quality assurance inspections on permanent change of station parties. They also conducted a warehouse inspection with one of the contracted carriers.

Sexton said, "This brings back memories to my active duty time, it all comes back to you when you see it being done!"

The 445th LRS went to Aviano to make a difference; the members of the unit increased their knowledge of how active duty units work. They were also able to show how hard reservist work. Both units benefitted from the experience and they welcome the chance to do it all again.