Airmen tour the flightline for the first time

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Scott Poe
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  One of the first thoughts when thinking of the 19th Force Support Squadron is the support given at the Hercules Dining Facility.

Cooking and serving food all day is normal for Airmen from the 19th FSS food services flight. Feb. 12, the flight was given the opportunity to step outside their normal duties and tour with the 913th Maintenance Squadron to experience combat airlift.

The 913th MXS showcased flightline operations, including exploring the inside of a C-130 and viewing aircraft launching and landing on the runway. The Airmen were able to sit in the co-pilot seat and learn about some of the controls that operate the aircraft. 

"Most of our dining facility Airmen have been assigned to the 19th Force Support Squadron their entire career and rarely get the opportunity to see the operational side of Little Rock's mission," said 2nd Lt. Brittany Jones, a 19th FSS food service officer.

Tech. Sgt. David Chismark, a 913th Maintenance Squadron crew chief, said that the experience helped them see firsthand one of the many missions they support.

"They may not have the opportunity to fly or see an aircraft up close, so it was a great feeling seeing the Airmen get excited to see aircraft I see every day," said Chismark.

This was the first tour the 913th Airlift Group has given to the 19th FSS, but there will be more in the future.

"We would like anyone to come for a tour of the 913th AG's unit and aircraft," said Chismark. "The Reserves are new to the base, and we would like to show Airmen what our mission is and how we accomplish it."

Chismark went on to say that all the Airmen left with smiles on their faces, and they will have photos to show their family and friends. It was a successful day for everyone involved.

Airman 1st Class Kimberly Weaver, a 19th FSS food service journeyman said it was a true moment of enlightenment seeing things from a different side and truly understanding the mission of the base.

"The tour was informative and a ton of fun," said Weaver. "I'm extremely appreciative for such an opportunity, and I would love to do it again."