Commander shadows flight equipment Airman

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 325th Fighter Wing commander learned the duties of a 325th Operations Group Airman Aug. 16, as part of the Airman's Shadow program.

Colonel David E. Graff, 325th FW commander, shadowed Senior Airman Brandon Keiper, 325th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician, while Airman Keiper performed his daily responsibilities.

Airman Keiper is responsible for inspecting, fitting and maintaining flight helmets, oxygen masks, torso harnesses and other critical lifesaving equipment. He also dissembles, inspects and repacks personal and drogue recovery parachutes.

"Colonel Graff actually got hands-on with inspecting, folding and packing the canopy into its container as well as sewing an anti-G suit," added Airman Keiper.

Although Airman Keiper has only been at the unit for less than six months, he has been an active member of the team.

"He is a true go-getter who is always looking for innovative ideals to improve the mission while putting the customer's safety first in all aircrew flight equipment duties," said Staff Sgt. Jordan Allen, Airman Keiper's supervisor. "In July, he graduated Airmen Leadership School and was ready to jump into supervisory tasks. Making staff sergeant his second time testing shows that he was the right choice to send for career enhancement and development."

During the Airman Shadow, Airman Keiper displayed his hard working character and leadership skills.

"It felt great to get selected for the program," Airman Keiper said. "It's not every day you get selected to show the commander around your work shop. I showed the commander the one man life raft, life preservers, ejection seat kit, ejection seat parachute, and sewing."

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.