J Model Gets the Works in Tactical Test: The Air Force has been putting the C-130J through more field testing, utilizing the Army’s Joint Readiness Training Center at Ft. Polk, La. Airmen from Little Rock AFB, Ark., conducted the joint training, making dirt strip landings and cargo air drops and working with soldiers during engine-running cargo offloads—sometimes attacked by simulated mortar shells. During the high-operations tempo, 24-hours surges, the Little Rock aircrews flew 15 sorties a day—under the watchful eyes of Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center personnel from Edwards AFB, Calif.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.