Sections' partnership breeds mission success

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Cary Smith
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Efficiency and timeliness are important to any agency's success, especially when you're in the business of generating airpower.

The 31st Maintenance Squadron Electrical and Environmental section recently relocated to the 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron Petroleum, Oils and Lubricants' cryogenic warehouse to best support the wing mission.

The POL section coordinates the shipment of liquid nitrogen and oxygen tanks to the base. Airmen from POL maintain and service the tanks, which are handled by E&E. The liquid oxygen is used for pilots to breathe in the cockpit and crew chiefs use the liquid nitrogen to fill aircraft tires.

"The POL and E&E sections now get to work in a more mutually beneficial manner," said 1st Lt. Cole Johnson, 31st LRS POL flight commander. "Additionally, working in the same location allows us both to learn from each other's experience and knowledge."

According to Staff Sgt. David Peterson, 31st LRS fuels facility supervisor, the move has also boosted productivity and improved communication between the sections.

"It really helps that E&E is on site," said Peterson. "We cut out a lot of time if servicing is needed or anything needs to be fixed."

This service includes inspecting nozzles, filters and all other parts before the 31st MXS Aerospace Ground Equipment section picks up the portable carts and delivers them to the crew chiefs.

"We transfer the liquid oxygen and nitrogen from POL's tanks to smaller portable carts," said Tech. Sgt. Troy Washington, 31st MXS E&E section NCO in charge. "We check the pressure levels in the cart and perform last minute maintenance so they're good to go on the flightline."

With the new relocation, both shops continue to operate more efficiently to meet the demands of Aviano's high operations tempo and ensure mission success.