AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The 31st Fighter Wing delivers combat air power and support across the globe but it would not be able to do this without the support of many specialized units stationed at Aviano Air Base.
One of these units is a tenant unit from the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, the 724th Air Mobility Squadron. The 724th AMS Airmen have a direct impact on the day-to-day operations of the 31st FW by facilitating the transportation of cargo and personnel in and out of Aviano Air Base.
“We’re the beginning and the end as far as aerial transportation movements,” said Staff Sgt. Gary Yates, 724th AMS air terminal operations center information controller. “I keep an eye on cargo processing, ramp services and passenger services. We disseminate information to and from the sections and to other agencies such as the Munitions Squadron, Traffic Management Office, Logistic Readiness Squadron or Command Post.”
Working for the 724th AMS involves more than just coordinating with other squadrons, they also provide safety of flight inspections and work hand-in-hand with the 31st Logistic Readiness Squadron to load and unload cargo.
“We know the 31st FW mission can’t get done without us,” said 1st Lt. Brendan Murphy, 724th AMS aircraft services flight commander. “We understand our role because we are all Team Aviano even though we don’t fall under the 31st FW. It’s a one team one fight type of thing.”
The squadrons’ support enables Aviano to maximize training efficiency and mission effectiveness in order to maintain its status as the premier go-to fighter wing south of the Alps.
The 724th AMS moves more than just cargo, they support permanent change of stations, temporary duty assignments and leisure travel.
Just like any major airport, the Airmen of the 724th AMS have a variety of jobs. They screen passengers and their luggage prior to boarding an aircraft, securing pallets for flight and coordinate with other bases to ensure Aviano has the support from heavy aircraft it needs to transport cargo and personnel.
“Whether you are moving to your new base or taking leave, people like to have the ease of access to drive around the flight line and get on a plane to go home instead of having to go to Venice,” said Senior Airman Thomas Harper, 724th AMS passenger service agent.
As of October 1, 2016 the Air Force Air Mobility Command’s Patriot Express will no longer stop at Aviano. With this in mind, Harper wanted to remind people that it is not the only means of travel that is available to military members.
“We will still have the passenger terminal,” Harper said. “The C-17s, C-5s and C-130s that arrive have seats available to certain locations.”
The 724th AMS is more than just a tenant unit–it is a vital part of Team Aviano that supports the 31st FWs ability to deploy worldwide in support of exercises and real-world operations.