Deploy, Refuel, Repeat

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Daniel Durbin
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, UT --  Today, the Air Force Reserve's role in the Global War on Terrorism is far more active, and that means more volunteers are needed.

In the spirit of that mission, Tech. Sgt. Michael Smith, a fuel technician from the 419th Logistics Readiness Squadron volunteered for two deployments this past year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"It was really a good experience," said Sergeant Smith. "It opened my eyes to how big of a force we are in that region, and how big of an operation we have in the Middle East."

Sergeant Smith said that his role and the role of other fuel technicians were vital in operations in the Middle East.

Part of the mission was fueling reconnaissance flights that helped identify threats to troops on the ground. "We pumped about a million gallons of fuel a day," Sergeant Smith said. "We were able to save a lot of troops."

Beyond refueling, Sergeant Smith volunteered for other military duties while deployed, including K-9 training and funerals for fallen soldiers.

Master Sergeant Jody Canfield, the 419th LRS first sergeant, said Sergeant Smith has always been "a very sharp troop."

"I have a feeling one of these days we'll see him as a Chief," Sergeant Canfield said. "He's twice volunteered to go into the fray. That's very admirable to go into that heat," added Sergeant Canfield with a laugh.

Lt. Col. Cathleen Bullard, the 419th LRS commander, agreed that Sergeant Smith was a great addition to the squadron.

"Right when he came to the squadron he was very enthusiastic," said Colonel Bullard. "He puts his heart and soul into whatever we try to do." Colonel Bullard also said that Sergeant Smith's willingness to volunteer makes him a great example to all Reservists.

"It makes my job as a commander so easy when you have people who volunteer," said Colonel Bullard. "He's a great example for his peers and subordinates."

Sergeant Smith said he feels he's doing what is necessary for the squadron to succeed.
"Being in this part of the LRS is like being in a family," said Sergeant Smith.