Aerial porters

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  Airmen from the Little Rock Air Force Base 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron ran a 3K along the flightline to commemorate fallen aerial porters Friday.

In late 2012 through 2013, there were 13 Air Force aerial porters or "port dawgs" that died around the world. It is a jump compared to the one death that occurred the year before. Air transportation porters establish and implement procedures for loading passenger and cargo aboard aircraft, processing passengers, and preparing records and reports.

"The Port Dawg 3K is a memorial run to honor our fallen comrades over the past year," said Master Sgt. Sam Aubry, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron air terminal operations center noncommissioned officer-in-charge.

The 2nd annual event started with a brief speech by Aubry and a prayer from Chaplain William Martin. The Airmen observed a moment of silence after the names of the lost 13 aerial porters were read.

The group then started the run in formation. Approximately 30 Airmen ran past C-130s parked along the flightline. They were led by a guidon bearer holding a flag that displayed the air transportation badge with a black sash to represent the fallen.

Even though it was close to 70 degrees outside, the group ran in full airman battle uniform.

"This is what we work in. Our ABUs show solidarity along with making the event as professional as possible," Aubry said.

There are not a lot of aerial porters in the Air Force.

"There are four to five thousand aerial porters worldwide. We are like a family," Aubry said. "Similar events are being held at bases all over, such as Al Udeid, Kadena and Andrews." 

Following the run, Aubry said, "This is just a small gesture to remember fallen Air Force members and honor their service."