The Ai
r Force’s C-130 Hercules fleet flew more than 23,500 hours above—yes, above—the tactical airlifter’s programmed flying hours. And, that, Gen. Michael Moseley told lawmakers Monday, is why “we are wearing them out.” The Air Force Chief of Staff also noted that over the past five months (September 2006 through January 2007), USAF C-130 and C-17s flew “100 percent of the Marine’s road-transportable missions,” which means about 9,000 troops per month didn’t need to run convoys.
Like a new car from the dealership, an HH-60W helicopter touched down at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on Nov. 2 with paperwork, a set of keys, and that fresh-from-the-factory smell. The newly activated 5th Helicopter Squadron accepted its first “Whiskey” in a brief but pomp-filled ceremony attended by the Air…