Paradrop Training In NC

Since 05 November, a majority of the unit has been based at Moore County Airport (SOP), which is near Sothern Pines, North Carolina. The purpose of this trip is to get unit personnel qualified in paradrop operations. To get us prepared, the FWAATS sent SGT Mike, a wise old Flight Engineer, to conduct two days of ground instruction. One day was spent in a classroom environment, while another was spent at the flightline rigging aircraft to conduct static line parachute drops. During paradrop operations, the pilots get off easy, our job is to keep the aircraft level at 1,250 feet above the ground while maintaing an airspeed of 105 knots. The hard job is placed on the Flight Engineer, who must ensure the aircraft center of gravity is not exceeded, supervise the load of jumpers, operate the aft ramp door, coordinate with the Jump Master, maintain communication with the pilots and ensure safety guidelines are followed...not an easy task.

Although the pace of training has been hectic, I did find time to attend a wedding today. My commander from the IN Detachment was married at a NC Justice Of The Peace office. When he asked Randy and I if we were free for about a half hour, we replied "sure--what do you need"...it wasn't until we were in the car on the way over to the JP office did we figure out that our job was to witness his marriage. It was an honor...Congratulations to the newlyweds!