Ellsworth Airmen keep cargo, people rolling ahead

  • Published
  • By Steven J. Merrill
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen from the 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron Air Terminal Operations Center teamed up with augmentees from the 28th Civil Engineer Squadron Sept. 23 to successfully load cargo destined for a forward operating location onto a C-17 Globemaster III.

The task of transporting people and cargo in and out of theaters of operation is made possible by the 28th LRS Deployment and Distribution Flight specialists from a variety of specific functional areas working together. During the recent activities, approximately 21 tons of cargo, primarily maintenance equipment, was prepared, loaded and sent downrange.

"We coordinate each aspect of moving people and cargo into and out of Ellsworth," said Master Sgt. Michael Hatto, 28th LRS ATOC section chief. "We do the same critical mission - which ranges from loading, unloading and manifesting cargo and equipment, to ensuring every Airman and piece of equipment is tracked - when we deploy."

Hatto said teamwork, communication and safety are the key elements of successfully accomplishing feats like this at Ellsworth, and at forward operating locations. During rotations, the Deployment and Distribution Flight Airmen can work around the clock to prepare for the departure or arrival of passengers and cargo to and from Ellsworth. It is, however, the support received from other squadrons and organizations on Ellsworth that provides the mobility machine the means to work so efficiently.

"Even though it is the primary mission of the 28th LRS to deploy personnel and cargo, our Airmen could not do this without the support of Team Ellsworth," said Lt. Col. Derek Harris, 28th LRS commander.

Hatto echoed his sentiment.

"We are very proud of the role that we play at Ellsworth and around the globe," Hatto added. "Everyone takes their tasks very seriously, and we greatly appreciate all of the support we receive from other organizations around the base that help us accomplish our mission."