LRS deploys convoy operators

  • Published
  • By Senior Joel Mease
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Tx --  Approximately a dozen Airmen from the 7th Logistics Readiness Squadron left for Camp Bullis, Texas, Saturday for Basic Combat Convoy Course (BC3) to prepare for an eight month deployment to Iraq. 

The Airmen, who are deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, work side by side with the Army and will support convoy operations throughout Iraq, said 1st Lt. Bruce Osborn, 7th LRS Vehicle Operations Flight Commander. 

Before heading to Iraq the Airmen will learn the basics of convoy combat at the BC3 course. The course at Camp Bullis, which lasts six weeks, stresses the concepts of teamwork and situational awareness, Lieutenant Osborn said. 

It's a mission, Lieutenant Osborn says their Airmen love to do. 

"I get the impression that it's one of the most important things I've ever done," said Staff Sgt. Lincoln Smith, about his upcoming second convoy deployment. "It's pretty rewarding to get respect from the Army." 

Because the Airmen will be deployed eight months or even longer, the flight leadership makes a strong commitment to ensure they stay in contact with Airmen and their families, Lieutenant Osborn said. 

"We are like a big family here; the welfare of our Airmen and their families is paramount," the lieutenant said. 

While doing convoy operations in Iraq, the Airmen will encounter different dangers and climates. 

"They may be subjected to extremely cold temperatures near the Turkish border, and experience blazing heat in a different location just a few days later," said Master Sgt. Malcum Massenburg, 7th LRS Vehicle Operations Superintendent. "The mission will require them to be extremely flexible; 16 and 18 hour days will not be uncommon. They will have to be familiar with a wide variety of weapons and remain extremely vigilant at all times." 

While the squadron will miss having its comrades back home, they know its now a necessary way of life for vehicle operators. 

"Most people don't realize these guys do more than just drive buses and deliver parts," Lieutenant Osborn said. "This is a mission and level of combat that most (people) in the Air Force will never experience. It has become the primary mission of the vehicle operators."