U.S. Air Forces in Europe
U.S. Air Forces Africa
July 31, 2014
Crossroads: Legend of the white eagle
By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POWIDZ AIR BASE, POLAND… [T]he skies above Poland are alive with another magnificent beast. Twenty miles from where Lech founded the former capital of Poland, two C-130J Super Hercules’ from the 37th Airlift Squadron out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany broke through the clouds above Powidz Air Base – their matted gray frames glistening white in the afternoon sun, July 28.
“We represent America’s forward presence, postured alongside our proven indispensible European partners,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bill Tice, detachment commander at Powidz. “Together, we are ensuring our security, protecting our global interests and bolstering economic bonds.”
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Continuing the long-standing tradition of shared commitment and close cooperation, Airmen are diligently working with the Polish Air Force throughout this flying-training deployment to maintain joint readiness and build interoperability capabilities.
“The Polish are modernizing their air force and we are here to assist as we can,” said Maj. Micah Chollar, 52nd Operations Group Detachment 1 director of operations. “The border between the east and west has moved and Poland is the new edge. We are working together to develop Poland into a stronger ally and NATO partner. By strengthening them, we strengthen ourselves.”
From a bird’s eye view, the unique terrain of Poland offers Airmen an opportunity to proficiently develop airdrop training and paratrooper skills, while simultaneously training pilots to safely touch down on unimproved landing zones.
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As Airmen of the 37th AS continue to build partnerships with the people of Poland, and hone their skills through intense training, they also represent something more.
“Through strengthened relationships and engagements with our Allies, the United States and NATO demonstrate a shared commitment to a peaceful, stable and secure Europe,” said Tice.
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