KUNSAN AIR BASE. Republic of Korea -- Staff Sgt. Tyler Plourde, a native of Dover, Delaware and 8th Fighter Wing noncommissioned officer in charge of occupational safety, was awarded Pride of the Pack for the week of June 23–27, after spearheading critical safety improvements and addressing deficiencies that directly enabled safe operations for 1,100 maintainers.
Plourde’s safety improvements and Fall Protection Training Plan allowed 1,100 maintainers to safely support the $84 million 2025 Flying Hour Program. He also led eight annual safety inspections spanning seven Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHSA) programs, streamlined confined space procedures, and introduced process improvements that cut Wing-wide on-the-job training by 28%.
Further advancing the Wing’s mission, Plourde played a key role in strengthening the U.S. Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force safety partnership through three joint cross-talks. His coordination led to the installation of railroad safety covers, cutting transportation device-related accidents by 33%.
As manager of six additional duty programs, Plourde showcased outstanding leadership by guiding a survey team and securing funding for seven quality-of-life projects, including three dormitory renovations.
Beyond his primary duties, he led three Kunsan 5/6 group initiatives and served as a vital member of the decorations committee for the 2025 Technical Sergeant release party. He also completed two OSHA-certified classes and three college courses toward his bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Thank you, Staff Sgt. Plourde, for your outstanding leadership and service to the Wolf Pack mission. Congratulations on being this week’s Pride of the Pack!