Mission Immersion Day shows Airmen their role in Strike Eagle airpower

by Senior Airman Ashley J. Thum
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

11/12/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C.  -- Airmen exchanged their normal Friday routine for a day spent on and around the flightline during the first 4th Fighter Wing Mission Immersion Day here, Nov. 7.

Slated to become a monthly occurrence, the event was designed to give Airmen fulfilling support roles across the base a better understanding of how flying operations are conducted and how their efforts make it possible.

More than 20 Airmen representing a myriad of squadrons participated in the event, making stops at several operations units.

"The purpose of this program is to help people across the base understand why they're doing their job and how they contribute to 4th Fighter Wing mission success," said Capt. Gordon Olde, 333rd Fighter Squadron weapons systems officer.

Participants began their day with a 4th FW mission brief and a description of the F-15E Strike Eagle's capabilities. After touring the 333rd FS, it was time for the group to get hands-on.

Senior Airman Jessica Bailey, 4th Medical Support Squadron medical logistics technician, was one of several Airmen who donned aircrew life support equipment, including a helmet and torso harness.

"I didn't realize how heavy the suit would be," Bailey said. "I can't imagine wearing all of that equipment while flying a plane. It's insane, but it makes sense."

Things didn't slow down from there as the Airmen visited the base operations facility, where they learned who maintains the runway, how the weather flight prepares aircrews for flights, and where radar approach control technicians monitor the base's airspace.

Although Col. Mark Slocum, 4th FW commander, intended the program to show support Airmen how their responsibilities put aircraft in the air, the next stop behind the controls of the 4th Training Squadron's flight simulators was an opportunity to turn the tables and give the Airmen an idea of what pilots and weapons systems officers accomplish while in the air.

"My favorite part was the simulator," Bailey said. "It was absolutely awesome."

The Airmen then made a trip up to the air traffic control tower and watched a demonstration of the bird aircraft strike hazard program. A stop next to the runway was a must to take in the sights and sounds of F-15Es in flight. Finally, the group got up close and personal with a static display of the airframe.

Olde said the itinerary will remain virtually the same for subsequent Mission Immersion Days, with each of the fighter squadrons hosting the event in turn. Airmen will be able to volunteer to participate, and Olde said it's a great opportunity both for new Airmen to learn why their role is important and for more seasoned Airmen who may be new to the base or who just need to be reminded of the importance of their efforts.

"Knowing the end result of your hard work is key for morale and effectiveness," Olde said. "We want to open people's eyes to how this side works, because without support from the entire base, there would be no flying operations."

Bailey said that sentiment was evident throughout her Mission Immersion Day experience. Although the majority of her more than five years in the Air Force has been spent at Seymour Johnson, she said opportunities like Mission Immersion Day are not the norm, and she encourages others to take advantage of the program.

"I've always had an idea of how my job fits into the big picture, but hearing it said and knowing it's appreciated is so gratifying," Bailey said. "It was great to learn more about what they do."