355th LRS plays key role in hosting rare aircraft

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Richard Stone
  • 355th Logistics Readiness Squadron
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Davis-Monthan Air Force Base had the rare opportunity to host two of the world's largest cargo aircraft May 5-6. The Antonov An-124 and the C-5 Galaxy were present in support of two Air Force exercises.

In a total team effort, the 355th Logistics Readiness Squadron deployment and distribution flight stood ready for the challenge. The personnel from the small air terminal, vehicle operations and the deployments, plans and integration flights demonstrated the day-to-day mission and the ability to receive and deploy forces across the globe supporting these two massive aircraft.

The Ukrainian built Antonov An-124 was on station in support of ANGEL THUNDER, the world's largest joint multinational interagency Combat, Search and Rescue exercise.

The 355th LRS not only assisted with the French Detachment's download of two helicopters, support equipment and roughly 30 personnel, they also played a critical role in positioning a C-5 Galaxy on the tarmac for departure.

The air terminal, led by Master Sgt. Richard Stone, prepared the upload of 13 pallets, two pallet trains and the aerospace ground equipment to support exercise Red Flag Alaska.

The eight ship A-10 Thunderbolt II package, supported by 125 participants, departed in support of a multi-service, multi-platform coordinated combat and close air support exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.

Both aircraft, remarkable in sight due to their sheer size, were successfully maintained and supported by the 355th LRS and are a testament to the capabilities provided by the Desert Lighting Team and the United States Air Force.