C-130 loadmasters may soon be able to replace the aircraft’s bulky 75-pound “milk stool” ramp-support block with a sturdy, lightweight alternative designed by Air Force Academy engineering cadets. The cadets’ 20-pound aluminum model “could help the C-130 community,” said Cadet Zachary Peters, who devised the prototype with three classmates. Consulting with members of Air Force Reserve Command’s 52nd Airlift Squadron at Peterson AFB, Colo., they designed their milk stool to withstand loads in excess of 61 tons. Today, loadmasters have to heft the current block up to 10 times during a mission. “When you take into account the heat and hydration issues that come with flying these missions [in a deployed environment], a lightweight design would help,” affirmed MSgt. A.K. Roberts, 52nd AS loadmaster superintendant. Air Force officials could adopt the cadets’ affordable design as early as next year. (Colorado Springs report by Don Branum)
US Space Command Should Always Be Led by a Guardian
Sept. 12, 2026
General Stephen Whiting took command of U.S. Space Command in January 2024, and if customary three-year tenures hold, his tour would end in January 2027. The question now before the President and Senate is who should follow him? Whoever they choose, it has to be a Guardian—and so should every successor…
