Commander shadows Airman for a day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 325th Fighter Wing commander learned the duties of a 325th Maintenance Group Airman Sept. 7, as part of the Airman's Shadow program.

Brigadier Gen. John McMullen, 325th FW commander, shadowed Airman 1st Class David Hennis, 325th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons load crew member, while he performed his daily responsibilities at the 325th MXG.

"During the shadow, General McMullen and I did a 90-day inspection on a configurable rail launcher," said Airman Hennis. "I showed him the steps that I take as a weapons troop to make sure that the equipment on the F-22 Raptor is mission ready. I also showed the General the other parts of the jet that I work on and am responsible for, including the launcher, bomb rack and the gun system."

He is responsible for the United States Air Force storage of munitions. He supports approximately 30 F-22 Raptors and storage for 49 custody accounts from three major commands.

"Airman Hennis is a true go-getter who is always looking for ways to improve the mission," said Staff Sgt. Tylon Todd, 325th AMXS weapons load crew chief. "He always puts safety first while performing his duties as a weapons load crew member. He stands out with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic."

"He has a thirst for knowledge and is constantly learning new tasks on the flight line," added Sergeant Todd. "He has quickly grasped troubleshooting and repair actions, like recently reprogramming faulty short message system software cards. These actions have helped the 43rd graduate 41 pilots in 2012. Airman Hennis bleeds Air Force blue and is truly tops amongst his peers."

During the commander's shadow, he was able to display his hard working character.

"I felt that the whole experience was great," said Airman Hennis. "It was a pleasure to show the General what I do every day, as I make sure that the F-22 is mission ready."

The Airman's Shadow program is a 325th FW commander program designed to recognize 325th FW personnel. The program provides an opportunity for the commander to meet with the Airmen and get a first-hand look at what Tyndall Airmen are doing.