Wolf Pack named peninsula’s best weapons loaders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 8th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Unit load team took first place during the 2013 Peninsula-wide weapons load crew competition, at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 8, 2013.

The base hosted the competition with representation from the 35th AMU, the 25th AMU from 51st AMXS, Osan Air Base, ROK 55th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 55th Expeditionary AMU, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., and the ROK air force's 38th Fighter Group, 38th Maintenance Squadron.

"These competitions showcase the skills Airmen have learned throughout their careers," said Chief Master Sgt. Scott Patterson, 8th Maintenance Group superintendent. "It also strengthens the bonds between us and our ROKAF partners."

The three man teams were judged on their reliability, technical proficiency, time and ability to safely load two munitions on their jets. Each team started with 2,000 points, and depending on how they performed points were added or taken away.

Not only does the competition allow for training but it also fosters friendly rivalries between units. More than 150 U.S and ROK airmen showed up to cheer on their team.

"I love these events and the crowd," said Col. Michael Morreale, 8th MXG commander. "It gets my blood pumping."

Along with Morreale, others including the competitors echoed his words of the espirit de corps the event built.

"This event was definitely a morale booster for me," said Senior Airman Devin Borger, 25th AMU load crew member. "It was good to come out here and see how my peers are performing and learn something from them."

When the final count was done, Kunsan's precision, reliability and safety trumped the speed showcased by others.

"We did great out there, doing it safely and accurately," said Airman 1st Class Derek Thayer, 35th AMU load crew member. "I am proud that we won it for the Wolf Pack"