Spangdahlem hosts Sure Fire competition

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RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (USAFENS) --  For the first time in more than a decade, U.S. Air Forces in Europe is hosting a command-wide aircraft weapons loading competition Aug. 24 and 25 at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.

Sure Fire 2005 is an opportunity for the USAFE to improve loading techniques, provide realistic training, improve the command’s wartime posture and to inspire pride within the units.

“This is a chance for our Airmen to show the rest of the Air Force how valuable they are to what we’re doing, whether it’s in Iraq , Afghanistan or wherever,” said Chief Master Sgt. Mark Carter, USAFE command weapons functional manager.

Weapons loading competitions have a long tradition dating back to 1954 when Tactical Air Command sponsored the first William Tell competition and several years later in 1958 when Strategic Air Command held a similar bomber loading competition called Giant Sword. However, during the 1990s operational and fiscal requirements put an end to these types of competitions. In November 2004, William Tell was resumed for the first time in eight years for its 50th Anniversary. Sure Fire is now back as well as an opportunity for units to showcase their best teams.

The competition involves 5 aircraft and crews from 3 USAFE bases -- Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Spangdahlem AB, and Aviano AB, Italy. The competition involves two, three-person load crews from each participating unit loading each aircraft with different weapons load configurations.

The crew with the best score will be named the Top Load Crew and the load crews with the best combined score by aircraft type will be named the overall winner.

Also, as an additional event on the side, a bomb lift-driving competition will be conducted between aircraft loads. The best jammer driver will be named the Top Jammer Operator based on skills demonstrated navigating a set course. The competitors comprise ten 3-person load crews, with support from a crew chief and weapons load supervisor. Load Crews will be judged on speed, safety, adherence to technical data and tool and equipment serviceability.

Judges are made up of weapons loading experts from USAFE Logistics, Safety, and Inspector General Directorates. The competition runs for two days, with 6 aircraft loads on the first day, and 4 on the second. The event culminates in a social gathering and awards ceremony that solidifies the esprit de corps exhibited and camaraderie gained.