KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- When Air Force Reserve aircraft launch into hurricanes, respond to global contingencies, or support domestic operations, they depend on more than just pilots, aircrew, and maintenance. Behind every mission is the crucial support provided by the 403rd Logistics Readiness Squadron.
The LRS is responsible for ensuring the right people and supplies are in the right place at the right time. Whether it’s fueling aircraft, issuing protective gear, or organizing cargo movement across continents, the squadron plays a critical role in mission success.
“The Logistics Readiness Squadron is the backbone of operational capability,” said Maj. Jonathan Bolton, 403rd LRS commander. “We manage and move people, equipment, and supplies—anything the mission needs, anywhere in the world. Without LRS, nothing gets off the ground.”
The squadron encompasses a variety of essential career fields; that not only offer hands-on experience but also valuable skills that translate into civilian careers.
In Vehicle Management, Airmen maintain and repair the fleet of government vehicles that support flightline and base operations. In Vehicle Operations, Airmen are responsible for providing drivers for transportation, as well as training other drivers.
The Traffic Management Office coordinates the processing, inspection, and certification on shipments of cargo, while Material Management oversees inventory and supply distribution with the Decentralized Material Support component playing a critical role in supporting maintenance operations by providing a direct supply chain integration.
Fuels Management ensures aircraft and ground vehicles receive the fuel they need to operate, and Deployment and Distribution planners ensure members meet deployment requirements and organize the movement of assets during exercises and real-world contingencies.
“LRS touches part of every mission,” said Tech. Sgt. Darykah Henderson, 403rd LRS supply technician. “We may not always be seen, but we’re constantly working behind the scenes to make sure our teams have what they need to get the job done.”
From hurricane support to global airlift missions, the 403rd LRS ensures every moving piece is in place and lays the foundation to ensure the operators have what is needed to ensure mission success.
“In logistics, we don’t often get the spotlight,” said Bolton. “But when our Airmen do their jobs right, the mission runs smoothly—and that’s what matters most.”
Whether it’s issuing the last pallet of gear before takeoff or managing deployment lines at zero-dark-thirty, the professionals of the 403rd LRS keep the wing ready, responsive, and resilient.
For more information on becoming a member of the Air Force Reserve and 403rd LRS, reach out to a local recruiter. There are also Air Reserve Technician positions available; which are dual civilian and military positions; vacancies can be found on USAJobs.