139th News

Airmen compete in Army Air Assault Course

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michael Crane
  • 139th Airlift Wing
Two airmen from the 139th Airlift Wing competed in the U.S. Army Air Assault Course in Neosho, Mo., from May 2 - 13, 2016.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Greggory Haynes, who is assigned to the 139th Security Forces Squadron, and Tech. Sgt. Kristen Roles, assigned to the 139th Maintenance Group, competed in the two-week long course.

The course is designed for soldiers who conduct air mobile operations, but is open to other service members. Students are tested on combat assault, rappelling, physical fitness, and preparing loads for helicopters, or sling loads.

The course was administered by the Army National Guard's Warrior Training Center based out of Fort Benning, Ga.

This is the first time airmen from the wing have competed in this course, said Senior Master Sgt. Mark Richie, superintendent of the 139th Security Forces Squadron.

"This is a great opportunity for joint training," said Richie. "[The course] helps with supporting the combat role in security forces and for joint deployments."

The course ended with a 12-mile ruck march that must be completed in under three hours.

Out of 205 students, 149 completed the course successfully and earned the Air Assault Badge.

Haynes was one of those students who graduated. Although Roles did not graduate, she will have another attempt later this year.

"We look forward to future opportunities for our folks to attend this course," said Richie.