All-female crew celebrates women's history

by Senior Airman Nicole Leidholm
60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On March 13, Travis was part of a women's heritage flight that consisted of an all-female C-17 Globemaster III crew, a first of its kind for Travis.

Travis' "Tribute to Women's History" flight was organized to celebrate and educate others about women's contributions to not only history, but the Air Force.

"The women who participated in the event all exemplify this year's national theme: women of character, courage and commitment," said Tech. Sgt. Shevaun Reighter, 21st Airlift Squadron training NCO in charge and event organizer.

The flight consisted of normal training, some pattern work that included touch-and-goes and assault landings, said Capt. Sarah Forte, 21st AS C-17 pilot.

First Lt. Jocelyn Booker, 21st AS C-17 pilot, switched off with Forte during the training. While Maj. Kathryn Veseth, 60th Operations Support Squadron and aircraft commander, helped the women pilots on their training.

Forte explained how many female pilots have a harder time overcoming self doubt during pilot training due to internalizing their feelings.

"When I fly I have to remind myself that if I mess up, not to internalize it," she said. "It may have just been the air that day and not to become my own worst enemy."

Following the pattern work, the aircraft met up with a KC-10 Extender for aircraft refueling training over the Pacific Ocean.

"The women's heritage flight was a positive event that reinforced the contributions of past generations," said Veseth, who looks up to former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as her role model. "I am extremely appreciative of such women and grateful for the opportunities these women made possible for future generations."

Once finished, the crew flew back to Travis, where it backed the C-17 to the distinguished visitors spot. There, women from the community gathered as they waited to board for a tour of the aircraft.

"It felt great to showcase the advancement of women over history," Reighter said. "I was honored to represent the women in my community who could not participate in the event. I really think we made a lasting impression on the spectators and our co-workers."

Forte echoed her thoughts on being proud to be part of the historical flight.

"When I was 7, we went to an air show where I met a female C-130 (Hercules) pilot who inspired me to also become a pilot," Forte said. "She told me, 'A lot of women join the military and try to be one of the guys. No one can be a better guy than a guy. Don't try to be like a guy. Be a girl. Be proud to be a woman and kick butt at it.'"