Base to clean its act in time for spring

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nora Anton
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The litter left behind after a six-month winter in Alaska is something not to be ignored. The annual FOD walk and a base clean-up both take place May 22, with all base units participating.

"The aesthetics of the base reflect the dedication of its people, and this event is here to put that ethos into full-swing just in time for the summer months," said Brig. Gen. Mark Graper, 354th Fighter Wing commander.

The FOD walk will require a mass, thorough cleaning of the flightline in which all trash and rocks will be picked up and thrown away.

"Even one pebble can ground an aircraft if it finds its way into the jet engine of the aircraft," said Brig. Gen. Mark Graper, 354th Fighter Wing commander. "The Annual FOD walks prevent unnecessary damage, expense, extra work and disruptions in operations."
Transportation will be provided per squadron, all buses will begin loading at 6:30 a.m. and will leave for the flightline at 7 a.m.

The bus schedule is as follows:

Civil Engineer Squadron: Bldg. 2310/Orderly room
Operations Support Squadron: Bldg. 354/Tower
Mission Support and Maintenance Groups: Amber Hall/Flag pole
Maintenance Squadron: Bldg. 551/Orderly room
Logistics Readiness Squadron: Bldg. 2811
Medical Group: Bldg. 2630's parking lot

The assigned buses will unload at selected locations on the flightline where participants, armed with trash bags, can pick up any and all debris on the flightline It is highly encouraged to for squadrons to provide their own trash bags, and disposing of the trash properly. Limited supplies will be available on the flightline. There will be collection points for disposal, located on the airfield for large bags and items found.

In addition to the flightline, the base clean-up will cover the surrounding base areas and the Adopt-a-Highway portions of the Richardson Highway.

"Having a base clean-up is something for all units to participate in, to show recognition for Mother Nature, and help our home look more presentable," said General Graper.

Squadrons are responsible to clean in and around their building and compounds, open areas and roadways in their assigned area, and to keep them clean throughout the season. Squadron personnel are responsible for disposing of trash properly.

All assigned areas are noted in the corresponding map.