433rd Airlift Wing

Congratulations to our partners at Starbase Kelly San Antonio for 30 years of serving students! The program held a kickoff celebration August 15th to mark their 30th anniversary of supporting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education for underserved San Antonio area students within the footprint of the 433rd Airlift Wing on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. Alamo Wing Reserve Citizen Airmen are proud to host, support, and serve as mentors for this amazing program. 433rd Airlift Wing Commander Col. Douglas Jeffrey and 433rd Mission Support Group Commander Col. Jeanne Bisesi were among the distinguished guests who were invited to say a few words about the importance of the program and the value it brings to the Alamo Wing family.

In case you don’t know, DoD STARBASE is a premier educational program, sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. At DoD STARBASE students participate in challenging “hands-on, minds-on” activities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). They interact with military personnel to explore careers and observe STEM applications in the “real world.” The program provides students with 25 hours of stimulating experiences at National Guard, Marine, Air Force Reserve, Army, and Air Force bases across the nation.

Congratulations to the latest graduating class (24-5) from the Robert D. Gaylor Noncommissioned Officer Academy (NCOA) at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, including the 433rd Airlift Wing’s own Tech. Sgt. Alpha Germain!

Tech. Sgt. Germain, a 74th Aerial Port Squadron cargo processing supervisor, displayed extraordinary resiliency, graduating the NCOA despite sustaining an injury during the course. Her wingmen from the 74th APS and 433rd AW Commander Col. Douglas Jeffrey were on hand at the graduation to celebrate Tech. Sgt. Germain’s accomplishment.

The NCOA is the second level of enlisted Professional Military Education and prepares Technical Sergeants to be professional, war-fighting Airmen and Space Professionals who can manage and lead units in the employment of Air and Space power.

The Robert D. Gaylor NCO Academy | Joint Base San Antonio

“If the Nation Calls... Are You Ready Now?”

Col. Douglas C. Jeffrey, IV, accepted command of the 433rd Airlift Wing during an assumption of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Aug. 4.

Maj. Gen. D. Scott Durham, 4th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and presented the 433rd AW guidon to Jeffrey.

“We believe in the pursuit of freedom by challenging the status quo,” said Col. Jeffrey. “We have to think differently because our enemies’ tactics are changing, but make no mistake, their strategy remains the same, and they've said as much… So, my question is… Are you ready now? If the nation calls, are you ready now?”

Jeffrey reflected on his time as a young officer and how he was ready and also had to transform for the future. He reminded Airmen to remember the foundational principles and to get back to the basics.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE:https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3865900/if-the-nation-calls-are-you-ready-now-col-jeffrey-emphasizes-readiness-at-assum/

4th Air Force Headquarters | Air Force Reserve |

Chief Master Sgt. Travon Dennis, 4th Air Force command chief, visited the 433rd Airlift Wing, Aug. 3-4, meeting with leaders and Reserve Citizen Airmen from across the Alamo Wing.

Dennis toured the 433rd AW’s operations, maintenance, mission support and medical groups, and recognized the successes of superior performers. He also hosted an hour-long enlisted call at the Bob Hope Theater, where he spoke of his career and upbringing. He also emphasized the importance of discipline, calling it the cornerstone of leadership.

“[Discipline] helps set the foundation,” said Command Chief Dennis to an audience of Airmen at the Bob Hope Theatre. “It builds up to the next level. Once you receive the proper levels of development, it’s going to shape you. It sharpens you for the next level so that you are prepared for any fight—any contingency.”

He further underscored the significance of the Air Force Reserve Command’s TASKORD ‘23.

To Read The Full Article CLICK HERE: https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3865942/4th-air-force-command-chief-checks-in-with-433rd-airlift-wing/

4th Air Force Headquarters | 4th Air Force Command Chief | Air Force Reserve

Today, we honor the brave men and women who have been wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. On , we remember their courage and resilience, as we are forever grateful as a nation.

Want to learn more about America's oldest medal? Take our quiz: https://www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Quizzes/Quiz/Article/3647222/the-purple-heart-symbol-of-sacrifice/

MEETING THE TROOPS – In preparation for his assumption of command at the 433rd Airlift Wing, Col. Douglas Jeffrey toured various parts of the Alamo Wing, learning about his and their diverse missions.

One stop included a visit with 433rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron Airmen at the 433rd AW flight line on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The troops were preparing to conduct an off-station training flight.

The event showcased the complexity of some Alamo Wing operations. It was planned by the 433rd AES, supported by a 315th Airlift Wing C-17 Globemaster and aircrew, and observed by two members of the British Royal Air Force, who were observing the event as part of the Department of Defense's Military Reserve Exchange Program.

4th Air Force Headquarters | Air Force Reserve
315th Airlift Wing | Joint Base San Antonio



(U.S. Air Force photos by Julian Hernandez)

Heroism in Action

Major Michael Medrano, C-5 functional manager within HQ AFRC’s Directorate of Operations, was awarded the prestigious Airman's Medal during a ceremony last week. Last summer, Maj. Medrano risked his life to save two children from drowning after a strong wave unexpectedly pulled them into the Gulf of Mexico.

Congratulations Maj. Medrano, your quick thinking and selflessness exemplify the highest standards of heroism.

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Executive Order 9981: Desegregation of the Armed Forces (1948) EnlargeDownload Link Citation: Executive Order 9981, July 26, 1948; General Records of the United States Government; Record Group 11; National Archives. View All Pages in the National Archives Catalog View Transcript On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed this executive order banning seg...

CITIZEN AIRMEN TRANSFORM FOR CLOR 2024 - A team from the 433rd Contingency Response Flight kickstarted and closed the Contingency Location Operations Rehearsal (CLOR 24) at the Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Michigan, June 24 - 28. The 433rd CR team worked alongside joint forces, coalition partners, transferred over 400 passengers, 286,000 pounds of cargo on C-17 Globemasters, C-130 Hercules, UH-60A Black Hawks, and a C-5M Super Galaxy. The exercise emulated a real-life combat environment while utilizing emerging tactics and technologies.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE: https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3838613/433rd-crf-kickstarts-transforms-and-closes-clor-2024/

Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center | United States Air Force | 960th Cyberspace Wing | U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) | Air Force Reserve | 4th Air Force Headquarters | Tinker Air Force Base | Air Combat Command | 136th Airlift Wing Texas Air National Guard | 5-101, 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment "Eagle Assault" | Office of Naval Intelligence | Air Mobility Command | 621st Contingency Response Wing | Royal Canadian Air Force | Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center

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ONE FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS - Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 433rd Maintenance Group performed the unit’s first-ever replacement of a General Electric F-138 (CF6) jet engine, which powers the C-5M Super Galaxy.

Changing out the multi-million dollar, approximately 9,000-pound jet engine is an intensive process requiring Airmen from multiple squadrons and specialties working together to properly disconnect and lower the old engine, then raise and reconnect the new one.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE: https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3827666/alamo-wing-maintainers-accomplish-historical-milestone/

Air Force Reserve | Joint Base San Antonio | 4th Air Force Headquarters

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FAREWELL COL. GUTERMUTH - The day before his official retirement date, 433rd Airlift Wing Commander Col. William Gutermuth shared one more meal with members of the wing who have served alongside him throughout his time in command.

The gathering also served as an opportunity for Col. Gutermuth and his wife Ashley to welcome the incoming commander, Col. Douglas Jeffrey, and his family to the Alamo Wing.

Thank you Col. Gutermuth for your 32 years of service to the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve. We wish you and your wife nothing but the best in your next chapter!

Today, we recognize PTSD Awareness Day to support those who are affected. PTSD can impact anyone who has experienced trauma, including our service members, veterans, first responders, and civilians.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, resources are available: https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/MHS-Toolkits/Toolkits/Mental-Health/PTSD-Awareness

Reach out, talk to someone. You are not alone.

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Safety first! Enjoy summer's experiences and outings, but make sure smart decisions are made!

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Students from the Leadership Officer Training Corps program at Jones and Aldine Middle Schools travelled all the way from Houston to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland on Jun. 13 to get a glimpse of the U.S. Air Force's largest airframe and the "Gateway to the Air Force."

The group toured a 433rd Airlift Wing C-5M Super Galaxy, visited the engine maintenance shop, and spoke with about military service. They concluded their visit with a stop at the USAF Airman Heritage Museum where they learned about Air Force history and JBSA-Lackland's role as a place where civilians are transformed into Airmen.

Aldine ISD | Joint Base San Antonio | Airman Heritage Training Complex

Celebrating 249 Years of strength, honor, and tradition!

From the Revolutionary War to modern-day missions, the U.S. Army has been a steadfast protector of our nation's freedom and values, displaying extraordinary courage and commitment every step of the way.

👏🎉 THANK YOU COL. GUTERMUTH! 🎉👏

Col. William Gutermuth, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, completed his final military Unit Training Assembly drill weekend for the U.S. Air Force here at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland on June 1, and 2. He is set to formally retire from the United States Air Force on July 4, 2024.

For his farewell he wanted to visit the groups, squadrons, flights, and look his Airmen in the eye, shake their hands, express his gratitude, and say goodbye in person.

“Thank you for letting me take a few minutes to say farewell,” said Gutermuth to an audience of 433rd AW Reserve Citizen. “Most of all I wanted to thank you for sharing in service and allowing me to serve alongside you in this wing… I have been impressed that you all have maintained the military standards as Citizen Airmen.”

Read the full article here: https://433aw.usaf.afpims.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3804177/433rd-wing-commanders-farewell-tour/

(U.S. Air Force Photos by Master Sgt. Jacob Lewis)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jocelyn Chang, PreFlight Aviation camp counselor from March Air Reserve Base, California, USAF Maj. Morgan Mitchell, PreFlight Aviation camp counselor, 6 other counselors, and 20 girls from the Aviation Camp visited the 433rd Airlift Wing. The group toured a C-5M Super Galaxy and the Virtual Reality Training Room here at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Jun. 6.

PreFlight Aviation Camp is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides a six-day aviation camp and mentorship program for girls.

(U.S. Air Force Photos by Master Sgt. Jacob Lewis)

March Air Reserve Base | |

"They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate." - President Franklin D. Roosevelt

By land, sea, and air more than 160,000 Allied forces stormed the heavily fortified beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, liberating France from N**i occupation and marking a turning point of the war in Europe. On the 80th anniversary of , we pay tribute to the greatest generation for their bravery on the ground and in the air, and the sacrifices they made to keep our world secure and free.

That Summer Feeling 🌞

Summer is just about here, & the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign has begun. Remember — most accidents during this period are preventable!

Check out some safety tips here: https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Summer-Safety/

Know the symptoms – ask for help! PTSD treatment & support is a continuous effort, but National PTSD Awareness Month is a focused time to help spread the word that effective PTSD treatments are available. If you or someone you know may be affected by PTSD, find support here today: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

Happy Pride Month to all.

This month, we celebrate the diversity and strength of the LGBTQ+ community.

The U.S. Department of Defense honored Ms. Nancy Olguin, Sunglass Hut manager, with the Seven Seals Award, Apr. 19. The award recognizes noteworthy individuals or organizational achievements and initiatives that promote and support National Guard and Reserve members. It is the broadest ESGR award for employers who support their Guard and Reserve members.

Olguin was nominated for the award by her employee, Senior Airman Arthur Tovar, an Air Force Reservist with the 433rd Civil Engineer Squadron, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas.

(U.S. Air Force Photos by Ms. Minnie Jones)

FIGHTING HUNGER - 433rd Airlift Wing Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 68th Airlift Squadron moved 166,000 pounds of food aboard a C-5M Super Galaxy from Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma to Panama Pacifico International Airport, just outside Panama City, as part of a humanitarian relief mission under the Department of Defense's Denton Humanitarian Assistance Program on June 1.

Panamanian aid workers estimate the delivery could help feed up to 1.1 million people.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE: https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3795874/in-the-fight-against-hunger-the-alamo-wing-delivers-a-c-5-sized-punch/

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) | United States Air Force | U.S. Department of State | USAID - US Agency for International Development | Air Force Reserve | 4th Air Force Headquarters | Tinker Air Force Base | Air Mobility Command

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The 433rd Airlift Wing Chiefs’ Group hosted a speed mentoring event at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, June 2, 2024. The event provided Airmen an opportunity to network with leaders across multiple career fields, gain different perspectives with strategic insights and make the most of five-minute sessions focused on career and personal enhancement. (U.S. Air Force Photos by Master Sgt. Mike Lahrman)