Beeliners take 21st Airlift Squadron flying mission downrange

  • Published
  • By Airman Michael Battles
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif --  Members of the 21st Airlift Squadron, nicknamed the BEELiners, departed as part of a mass deployment in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom Feb. 23.

Airmen bid farewell to family, friends and fellow servicemembers before departing.

Their four-month deployment, as part of the 817th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, will take the Airmen to various locations throughout Southwest Asia.

"We get to do what we always do, just in a different location," said 1st Lt. Oliver Woodland, 21st Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III pilot.

The deployment will support around-the-clock C-17 missions moving troops, supplies and equipment throughout Iraq and Afghanistan.

"Whether it's support equipment, personnel, combat-ready troops, critical transport vehicles or logistical sustenance, Travis lift will do it all," said Lt. Col. Ethan Griffin, 21st Airlift Squadron commander.

In addition to deploying pilots, loadmasters, and squadron aviation resource management troops, the 21st AS is also receiving support from the 60th Operations Support Squadron which is deploying aircrew flight equipment and communications Airmen.

"We are just looking forward to getting out there and doing what we've trained for," said 1st Lt. Ellen Getzelman, 21st Airlift squadron C-17 pilot. "We just want to do our part."

While deployed, the 21st AS will be using everything their training has prepared them for including intercontinental airlift and refueling, distinguished visitor transports, aeromedical evacuations, tactical approaches and departures at semi-prepared and austere airfields, and transport amidst the demanding international aviation system.

"Our training has thoroughly prepared us. Our commitment to American values has emboldened us," said Colonel Griffin. "Thoughts of our families have inspired us to excellence. Our leadership team is dedicated to the continued care and well-being of our families; none will be forgotten. The 21st AS, carrying on the proud legacy of those before us, stands ready to deliver on our motto, 'Setting the airlift standard."