Pride of the Pack: Staff Sgt. James Owens

  • Published
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  

Unit: 80th Aircraft Maintenance Unit

Duties: Dedicated crew chief (DCC) F-16 Fighting Falcon Aircraft 90-0736

Hometown: Springville, Calif.

Hobbies: Juvat Hooch Daddy, Large Marge, Harley

Favorite music: Metal, especially the Juvat Anthem

Follow on: Luke Air Force Base, Calif.

Last good movie you saw: New Planet of the Apes

Best thing you've done here: Hail in as a Juvat.

Reason for nomination: "Staff Sgt. James Owens' exemplary troubleshooting efforts were vital in repairing an 80th AMU F-16 Viper that landed with a defective accessory drive gearbox. Owens' impressive maintenance abilities were made evident when he noticed a small oil leak during a post-flight inspection. He immediately assembled a three-person maintenance team of newly assigned Airmen to troubleshoot the aircraft. His extensive maintenance knowledge and outstanding leadership isolated the malfunction to a faulty carbon seal. Left undetected, this leak would have led to certain catastrophe. The removal and replacement of this component is one of the most complex and tasking jobs for an F-16 crew chief. His efforts culminated in 96 man-hours of training and returned the aircraft to fully mission capable status. Owens' expertise directly secured the Wolf Pack's ability to protect the Korean peninsula and, if necessary, "Take the Fight North". His maintenance efforts to the 8th Fighter Wing's mission make him a perfect choice for this award." -- Senior Master Sgt. Paul Julbes, 8th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron

[Editor's note: The 80th AMU's mascot is the Juvat. Reference to the Juvats above show's Owens' commitment and loyalty to his unit and the 8th FW.]