Capt. Greg Jones and A1C Ian Hughes, both assigned to the 37th Airlift Squadron, Ramstein AB, Germany, received Air Medals for their combat service in Southwest Asia. Jones piloted a C-130E on 20 missions, transporting critical cargo, distinguished visitors, and coalition and Iraqi forces. Hughes served as loadmaster on a C-130E, delivering 85 tons and 923 personnel in less than two months, during which he also served as the aircraft’s eyes searching out potential attackers on the ground. Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne presented the medals.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.