Ramstein C-130s buzz around the globe

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Mark August
  • 37th Airlift Squadron director of operations
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  The 37th Airlift Squadron is normally assigned tactical airlift missions; however, throughout the month of November the squadron supported strategic objectives in Algeria, Ukraine and Israel.

With support from the 86th Maintenance Group, 86th Contingency Response Group and 86th Air and Space Communications Group, Team Ramstein sent its Airmen to the countries in a full-court press for theater security cooperation.

Algeria was a short-notice tasking from European Command. Upon arrival, Captains Justin Brumley, Adam Wantuck and J.D. Foy provided instruction on U.S. Air Force flying operations, observed Algerian C-130 operations and provided thorough feedback. The efforts of these three Airmen opened the door to future military cooperation with Algeria.

A C-130 deployed in support of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe's effort to interface with Ukraine. USAFE Airmen worked with Ukrainian officers, cargo handlers and airlifters. This first interchange of ideas and capabilities set the foundation for future airlift training operations in the Ukraine.

For the first time, a U.S. Air Force C-130 squadron deployed for a bilateral airlift exercise with the Israeli Air Force. Led by Captains Jason Kuhns and J. Agnew, the 37th AS and two Israeli C-130 squadrons planned, observed and debriefed tactical airlift operations. The two-week operation was so successful that the Israelis invited the 86th Airlift Wing back in 2008.

No flying operation succeeds without the professional support and commitment of aircraft maintainers. During Israel, the 86th MXG, led by Maj. Tony Nance, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, kept the 45-year-old aircraft flying for 27 of 27 missions.

Additionally, the 86th CRG deployed elements of its base-opening capability under Capt. Wayne Taylor. The 86th Air Mobility Squadron enabled force protection, cargo and airfield operations, and command and control within hours of hitting the ground in Israel.

Despite the age of its tactical airlift fleet, the 37th AS and the supporting Airmen from the 86th AW are a cornerstone of U.S. strategic presence in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.