Crew 75: Number 1 in the Wing

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torri Ingalsbe
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Tensions were high and egos were on the line in Hangar 6 March 14 as four weapons load crews competed for the coveted title of the 48th Fighter Wing's best load crew of the year. The four crews were the best out of 47 on base and represented their aircraft maintenance units. 

Crew 75 took the honors at a banquet held in the hangar March 20. The 493rd AMU crew consists of Staff Sgt. William Cole, Senior Airman Daniel Serrano and Airman 1st Class Kayla Gasaway. 

"This was a very close competition," said Chief Master Sgt. James Melfie, 48th Fighter Wing weapons manager. "The winning crew had 2780 out of 3000 possible points with the runner-up only 15 points behind with 2765 points." 

The crews are judged in four areas: Weapons load, tool box inspection, dress and appearance inspection and a written test. 

"This is a great competition," said Senior Master Sgt. David McBride, 48th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Strike Weapons superintendent. "The weapons guys love it and it gives them a chance to demonstrate their abilities." 

According to Air Force Instruction, load crews are allotted 52 minutes to completely arm an F-15 with the munitions tasked for this event; however, that time was decreased to 35 minutes for the competition. 

"It's a little stressful," said Staff Sgt. Victor Williams, 493rd AMU weapons load crew chief. "Once we start working, though, it just becomes second nature." 

Sergeant Williams and his crew were the winners of the first quarter load crew competition. 

"It gives you a real great sense of squadron pride, plus you get bragging rights," he added. 

Sergeant McBride said the crews work hard to prepare for the competition. He said the competition builds morale and gives load crews something to strive for. 

"Not only do they win a trophy," he said, "but they get to talk smack for a whole year because they're the best."