The new C-17 force at Travis AFB, Calif., embarked on its first collective deployment as a squadron late last month. The 21st Airlift Squadron, which received its first new C-17s in August 2006, deployed en masse to Southwest Asia to more efficiently employ the unit’s few aircraft and crews, according to Maj. Gregory Goar, 21st AS assistant operations officer. He explained: “Air Mobility Command developed a concept of operations involving the forward deployment of C-17 airlift squadrons in cycles. This allows combatant commanders to take better advantage of the C-17’s tactical airlift capabilities.” Another C-17 squadron from Charleston AFB, S.C., has also deployed to the SWA theater of operations. AMC began stationing C-17 units in the region in 2006. (Travis report by TSgt. Matthew McGovern)
One Airman was killed and three others injured in a vehicle mishap at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., on June 29. Additionally, two first responder Airmen sustained injuries responding to the incident. All five injured Airmen have been transported to nearby medical facilities, according to a release from the base.