By Spc. Kate A. Hoit
301st ASG Public Affairs
LOGISTICS SUPPORT AREA ANACONDA, Balad, Iraq -- No matter how awkward it may look, the C-23 Sherpa airplane has been getting the job done since Desert Storm and has a reason behind why it's so oddly shaped.
The 12 Sherpa airplanes on Logistics Support Area Anaconda are operated and supervised by 100 Soldiers from three units: the 484th Transportation Battalion, 329th Movement Control Team and Alpha Company, 249th Aviation.
They also receive help from Kellogg, Brown and Root contract workers.
With the ability to take off and land at short distances, the Sherpa has become quite useful to the Army. Known for its ability to transport up to 30 passengers, and palletized cargo, it is typically used for high-altitude and longer distances missions rather than helicopters or C-130.
The Sherpa was designed with specifics in mind. With its box shaped body, the Sherpa has the ability to ship a variety of items.
"The Sherpa was picked up in the early 90s and was first widely used during Desert Storm," said Maj. Devin Mickenhagen, A Co. 249th Av., commander.
The Sherpas first landed in country during the end of OIF I. They were flown over the North Atlantic and have been here ever since. The benefits of having this type of plane in country are endless.
Compared to the C-130, the Sherpa can be flown for one person if necessary. The crew can also fly people or supplies on extremely short notice if needed.
"Today we have medical supplies on board, and there wasn't time to have a 72-hour notice or the cargo weight like the Air Force requires," said Staff Sgt. John Mueller, A. Co. 249th Av., flight crew. "But we are able to move things on call if needed."
The KBR personnel helps the Sherpas stay in air. The maintenance crew takes care of the planes whenever needed and are on call 24 hours a day.
Every repair that is preformed on the airplanes is kept in line with the Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
"We [KBR] load cargo onto the planes, manifest people who are flying, and regulate Space A", said Jemel Fontenot, KBR.
During rush hours on the flight line, the flight crew makes sure the Sherpa is ready for take off. They check the plane inside and out, load up the cargo, and brief the passengers.
They usually see six to seven flights leave daily.
"This is the safest way to travel, and I wouldn't want it any other way," said Sgt. Chris Self, A. Co., 249th Av., flight engineer.
The Soldiers recognize the importance of their mission here and are eager to continue flying personnel and supplies throughout Iraq.
"We all feel we have a great mission," Mickenhagen said. "Everything we fly around country is something that doesn't have to go by convoy and risk being hit by an IED."
Editors Note: Spc. Hoit is a member of the 301st Area Support Group Public Affairs Office at LSA Anaconda.
| Date Taken: | 07.11.2005 |
| Date Posted: | 07.11.2005 14:46 |
| Story ID: | 2364 |
| Location: | BALAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 115 |
| Downloads: | 19 |
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