374th OSS manning assist

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Juan Torres
Yokota Air Base, Japan --  With Yokota undergoing a C-130H Hercules to C-130J Super Hercules transition, the 374th Operations Support Squadron has been preparing for their arrival with the help of Air Force Reservists and Air National Guardsmen.

This transition from the old H-model to the new J-model C-130s has given the Aircrew Flight Equipment Flight a chance to show their capabilities overcoming the many challenges that come with the airframe switch.

“Our big issue was that we were getting 14 J-model aircraft, with eight of them coming fresh from the factory and not having the equipment we need” said Master Sgt. Richard Jackson, 374 OSS AFE superintendent. “We needed help in order to meet all the requirements for that transition.”

Each C-130J has approximately 1,500 life support and survival items. Additionally, when the H-models leave they must be fully equipped and ready for their next home, leaving the 374 OSS with a big workload.

“None of our C-130Hs are going to the boneyard, so they need all the equipment necessary to fly them,” Jackson added.

With the help of these Guardsmen and Reservists from around the Air Force, the AFE flight is accomplishing vital work in preparation for the all C-130Js coming to Yokota; ensuring the new aircraft have everything they need to accomplish the various missions in their new Pacific home.

Among the members that assisted AFE are:

Tech. Sgt. Ryan Strong, 177 OSS, New Jersey ANG
Tech. Sgt. Jacklyn Sugiyama, 120 OSS, Montana ANG
Tech. Sgt. Johnnie Sims, 403 OSS, Keesler AFB, Mississippi
Tech. Sgt. Stephen Roberts, 339 Flight Test Squadron, Robins AFB, Georgia
Tech. Sgt. Marlon Prevost, 403 OSS, Keesler AFB, Mississippi
Tech. Sgt. Ryan Aderhold, Minnesota ANG
Senior Airman Kaitlyn Tydingco, 154 OSS, Hickam AFB, Hawaii ANG

“They have been phenomenal ambassadors. They have really shown us a great example of how Guardsmen and Reservists work and are eager to learn,” said Jackson. “We can rely on them just like any other members of our team.”

Through their skills and expertise, the Guardsmen and Reservists have proven to be a valuable asset for the 374 OSS in the C-130H to C-130J transition.

“They not only accelerated our timelines, but added different experiences, perspectives and infectious positive attitudes to our team,” said Lt. Col. Richard F. Mcelhaney, 374 OSS commander.