74th, 75th AMU clash in load competition

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dillian Bamman
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  In a hangar crowded with cheering fans, two teams stand prepared for the competition.

As the sound of the master of ceremonies' voice roars, the six load crew members ready their wrenches set to showcase their daily mission; load bombs on A-10C Thunderbolt IIs.

Every quarter, the 23d Maintenance Group hosts these competitions, which pit load teams from the 74th and 75th Aircraft Maintenance Units against each other through multiple maintenance tasks.

"For the maintenance field, this is our Super Bowl," said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Dustin Tolleson, 23d Maintenance Group lead crew team member. "We take pride in being the best and fastest at what we do, and what better way to show it than demonstrate our capabilities for the base to see."

Each crew member undergoes a series of testing before the weapons load, which includes a 25-question job-knowledge exam, dress and appearance inspection and a toolbox check.

The load teams begin with a set amount of points and a 45-minute time limit, and infractions like safety concerns or failure to follow instructions decrease their overall score.

"There is a set time limit to finish the load, but if it's done incorrectly you will still lose ... you simply can't rush your work," said Senior Airman Jeffrey Finnen, 74th AMU weapons load team member.

The 75th AMU finished almost seven minutes ahead of its rival, the 74th AMU, but due to the point system, the victory could have gone to either team.

The competition proves to be a challenge for any maintainer, but the chance to participate is enough for Finnen.

"The lone fact of being nominated to compete is an honor," said Finnen. "You have to be the best to participate; showing up on time, excelling at your job and going above and beyond every day is how you get here."

Being in the spotlight can be stressful, but to Finnen, the spotlight is his favorite aspect of the competition.

"There are a lot of eyes on you during the competition, which gives a sense of realism for the mission we support," said Finnen. "The best part for me [competing] is that I'm doing well enough at my job to be recognized and highlight my work ethic to others."

Even though both teams competed to the best of their ability, the 75th AMU's load team took home the trophy and bragging rights for the next three months. They will go on to compete in the annual load competition slated for October 2016.