Airman flies high as reward

[thedrifter]

Airman flies high as reward
Submitted by: MCAS Iwakuni
Story Identification Number: 20031218233218
Story by Lance Cpl. David Revere



MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan(December 19, 2003) -- The airman had one word to describe having his brains sucked to the back of his skull at a force of mach O.86 ... "Glorious!"

Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Brandon A. Jones, plane captain for an EA-6B Prowler, received an hour-long flight Dec. 3 in the jet as part of Navy Electronic Attack Squadron 128's incenti-flight program. The program recognizes outstanding workers and provides motivation for others to give their jobs 100 percent, said Lt. Jessica Baker, Jones' line division officer. Jones recently became eligible to be nominated for the program when he won plane captain of the quarter.

Plane captains oversee a Prowler's entire ground crew, ensuring proper maintenance and operation in every area.

"We're the first and last eyes on the jets before they take off and come back from flight," said Jones. "We're basically in charge of the jet." Jones attributed his recognition to the pride that he takes in his aircraft.

It was a pride that was reciprocated by his nomination for the flight.

"Everyone in the entire chain of command approved it," said Baker. "He's an outstanding worker. He's a perfect example and the perfect kind of guy you want to award the flight too."

Petty Officer 1st Class Mark Morris, Jones' leading petty officer, agreed that Jones was the perfect choice for the flight.

"He's probably the hardest worker I have," said Morris.

Morris felt that the flight would give Jones a greater appreciation of what he does on the ground.

"He's very familiar with the aircraft from the ground operation, but it's a whole other story what he's going to experience. He's going to totally understand why he works so hard down here."

Hard work is critical due to the considerable maintenance a Prowler requires. The aging aircraft has been utilized since 1972 for electronic warfare. The Prowler's purpose is to accompany fighter jets on combat missions, jamming enemy radar and disabling their ability to lock on to the jets.

"I've had a lot of fun working on this jet," said Jones, who joined the Navy nearly two years ago. "I'm currently working on my wings."

Receiving Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist qualification, or "wings", indicates expertise in the subject; another way for Jones to go above and beyond.

The incenti-flight assured that going above and beyond would receive new meaning for Jones. "It was unbelievable," he said moments after landing, "I never thought it would be like that. It was really beautiful seeing all the countryside of Japan."

Although Jones said his favorite part of the flight was flipping upside-down in a barrel roll, he acknowledged that he was glad to be back on the ground.

From aviation physiology to water survival, Jones underwent everything necessary to take the flight.

"Those who get the incenti-flight have to undergo the same training that the pilots do," said Cmdr. Charles Drummond, commanding officer for VAQ-128.

As it's name indicates, the incenti-flight was not just a reward for Jones, but an incentive to others. "I want the other kids to see him kicking butt and follow in his tracks," Drummond said.



Navy Airman Apprentice Gregory T. Brumann, plane captain, communicates with the pilot during final take off preparations. Photo by: Lance Cpl. David Revere

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn20...5?opendocument

Sempers,

Roger