Wind a factor for Fleet 5 Published March 18, 2011 By 2nd Lt. Katie Batchelder 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The delta breeze blowing from west to east through Travis can be detrimental to the members of Fleet 5. Airman 1st Class Abby Potter and Senior Airman Zachary Berndt, 60th Aerial Port Squadron air transportation specialists, are the lavatory service technicians at Travis. When a plane needs to be serviced, Fleet 5 Airmen drive out to the aircraft and are often welcomed by aircrews who are happy to see them. When the waste flows from the aircraft, there can be excess that leaks outside of the pumps and the harsh breeze can make matters messy for the Airmen downwind. Night or day, rain or shine, windy or calm, these Airmen are on the flightline removing waste from aircraft. In 2010, they serviced 553 aircraft per month, which included C-5 Galaxies, C-17 Globemaster IIIs, KC-10 Extenders and commercial aircraft that landed at Travis. Also in 2010, they removed 6,612 pounds of foreign trash. The foreign trash is separated and sent to an incinerator or autoclave to be sterilized or burned. "It's not the most glamorous job," said Airman Potter. "It's a behind-the-scenes task, but I don't mind it because our unit cohesion is great and we just accept the job for what it is." In addition to removing waste from the aircraft, the Fleet 5 team also pumps potable water into aircraft for sink and restroom usage. "It's great to see that our work is appreciated by others and that it doesn't go unnoticed," said Airman Berndt. Despite their sometimes messy and malodorous job, Fleet 5 behind-the-scenes efforts greatly contribute to the mission of Travis.