Eielson recognizes F-16 experts

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Coleman
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Nine crew chiefs were recognized during a dedicated crew chief ceremony Dec. 17 for their hard work ensuring Eielson's F-16's are ready to go.

Today's Air Force crew chiefs work on many airframes, becoming masters of aircraft inspections, hydraulic systems troubleshooting, and field level engine maintenance. Dedicated Crew Chiefs are chosen based on their length of experience, initiative, management and leadership ability, and technical knowledge. They are most often staff sergeants or higher and require one of two Air Force Specialty Codes.

Once selected, a DCC's name is painted on the side of "their" aircraft, illustrating their pride and dedication to the aircraft. Additionally, since it takes a large team of professionals to maintain each aircraft to the highest standards, DCCs are also required to be mentors, teachers, leaders and role models.

They are accountable for servicing the aircraft, basic post-flight, pre-flight, thru-flight, and home station checks, and multiple inspections among other responsibilities

"It's been a long tradition, since the Air Force began, that we recognize the dedicated crew chief," said Maj. James McArthur, 354th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Commander. "It builds camaraderie between the pilot and the crew chief, a bond between the two - a trust that once they step to the jet, the jet is ready to go."

Taking in mind the extensive responsibilities and criteria, it becomes clear why being a DCC is such a highly regarded position among maintainers. The following crew chiefs were recognized for their exceptional service and dedication to the mission, knowledge level and leadership skills, which are all crucial to our F-16 mission here at Eielson.

DCC FOR THE 354th FIGHTER WING FLAGSHIP, AIRCRAFT 314 - Staff Sgt. Jeremy Dodd
DCC FOR THE 354TH OPERATIONS GROUP FLAGSHIP, AIRCRAFT 335 - Staff Sgt. Sarah Granados
DCC FOR THE 18TH AGGRESSORS FLAGSHIP, AIRCRAFT 290 - Staff Sgt. Jared Carlson
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 268 - Staff Sgt. Kenneth Phillips
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 282 - Staff Sgt. Charles Hall
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 293 - Staff Sgt. Gregory Trebian
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 304 - Senior Airman Jared Gunn
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 351 - Senior Airman Dean Bloomberg
DCC FOR AIRCRAFT 366 - Senior Airman Augustine Luna

"I am so proud of their dedication," said Major McArthur. "They work so many hours out in the elements, following a long tradition in Air Force history. They're fantastic mechanics and great Airmen."