“There are few opportunities like this available for enlisted members,” says SMSgt. Matthew Fekkers, who serves as superintendent of a one-of-a-kind research engineering flight at Whiteman AFB, Mo., that designs tools, researches new technology, and creates engineering drawings to support B-2 bomber operations. TSgt. Timothy Lockard, 3-D computer aided design specialist, said they currently are working on improving the existing situational awareness and communications upgrade (SACU) to eliminate “cables strung across the cockpit floor.” The Whiteman team engineered and designed the SACU system and the adaptable communications suite slated to replace it sometime next year that will enable the aircrews to send and receive encrypted data en route to a combat theater. Maj. Brian Clough, flight commander, said the unit’s projects “either add capability to the B-2 or assist in the maintenance.” (Whiteman report by SSgt. Jason Barebo)
Unit commanders are being told to separate service members who can’t shave their cheeks and chin for medical reasons for more than a year, according to new guidance from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
