U.S.-Turkey military partners support the GWOT

  • Published
  • By By 1st Lt. Rose Richeson
  • 39th Public Affairs
Incirlik Air Base Turkey --  In just three days, the U.S., Turkey and Afghanistan worked together on a joint mission transporting more than 135,000 pounds of Turkish equipment and supplies from Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, to Kabul AB, Afghanistan.

The entire Turkish equipment load was transported by C-17 Globemaster IIIs assigned to the 385th Air Expeditionary Group here. Supplies including two helicopters, an ambulance, a tractor and numerous shipping containers were loaded by an assortment of Reserve, Guard and active duty members which make up the 728th Air Mobility Squadron.

"My team was responsible for loading and securing the equipment before transport," said Staff Sgt. James Pickel, 728th AMS Ramp Services shift supervisor.

The loading process can take up to several hours and is typically done five to six hours prior to take off Sergeant Pickel said. His three-man team was able to load one third of the total cargo for this mission in just under two hours April 16.

"I think this (mission) only goes toward strengthening the special relationship between the U.S. and Turkey and gives us more to build on in the future," said Maj. Douglas Edwards, 817th Air Expeditionary Group C-17 pilot.

The equipment transfer to Afghanistan sparked Major Douglas' interest especially during such a crucial time in history as the country continues building a strong foundation for a brighter future.

"The equipment we delivered today and the equipment that we will continue to bring in the future affects the broader success of the Global War on Terrorism," he said.