AIrfield inspection reveals excellence

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Johnny Turner
  • 354th Operations Support Squadron
EIELSON AFB --  Eielson Airmen recently established themselves as being among the best in the Air Force during the 2007 Air Traffic System Evaluation Program and the Air Force Weather Standardization and Evaluation Program inspection.

According to Capt. Jeffery Byman, 354th Operations Support Squadron Airfield Operations Flight commander, the objective of the ATSEP is to analyze (from an operational viewpoint) the total air traffic system for safety, compatibility and adequacy.

"The ATSEP (inspection) is normally performed on a two-year cycle, but it had been three years since our last inspection," Captain Byman said.

While the Pacific Air Forces' inspection team scoured Eielson's airfield operations (which includes the 354th Operations Support Squadron's air traffic control tower, airfield management operations, and weather offices), it also tested the mettle of other units like the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron and the 354th Communications Squadron that support the airfield as well.

Praising the close coordination as crucial to the success of the inspection, Lt. Col. Daniel Tippett, 354th Operational Support Squadron commander, said he saw a commitment to excellence from everyone involved.

During the evaluation out-brief, an 'outstanding' grade was given for most section inspected and several programs garnered top honors. Among them were the airfield operations flight line driving, terminal instrument approach procedures, and tower simulation simulator programs. Superior performers during the inspection were, Tech. Sgt. Michael Roxberry, Tech. Sgt. Devlon Harrison, both from 354th OSS, and Airman 1st Class Melbourne Dunkley, 354th CES.

Colonel Tippett said he's confident knowing that the base has strong programs and personnel to support the flying mission, which can be extremely difficult during the winter. "I'm continually amazed by the people here, the total team's determination working towards the inspection, and extremely pleased by their 'outstanding' performance during the evaluation."