The Air Force has awarded a Bronze Star medal to MSgt. Paul Tranetzke for his actions while deployed from the 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron at Malmstrom AFB, Mont., to Al Kasik, Iraq. SrA. Eydie Sakura reports that Tranetzke led a four-man team training Iraqi soldiers in base defense and outside-the-wire patrols. He led more than 900 combat missions and led convoys safely through numerous small arms and IED attacks.
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.