In January, a C-5M transport aircraft flew to Iraq, a historic first for the new version of the massive cargo hauler. The aircraft not only delivered more than 85,000 pounds of equipment on short notice, but also arrived back at Dover AFB, Del., well ahead of schedule. “It’s satisfying to get the aircraft into the fight,” said Lt. Col. Mike Semo, C-5M program office chief and pilot with Air Force Reserve Command’s 709th Airlift Squadron at Dover. The Air Force has finished C-5M operational test and evaluation (See C-5M Operational Testing Concludes). It is transitioning the first of its 52 planned C-5Ms into normal operations. Once C-5M aircraft are cleared for direct delivery, they will be able to fly straight from Dover to Iraq without stopping en route to refuel. Still to come: the first C-5M mission to Afghanistan. (Dover report by SSgt. Chad Padgett)
Top Lawmakers Want 15 Percent Pay Raise for Enlisted Troops
April 19, 2024
A new law introduced by Congress would raise the pay rate 15 percent for junior enlisted troops and seek improvements on a range of quality of life issues, such as pay and compensation, child care, housing, health care access, and military spouse employment.