The 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron coordinates air support

Photo By Staff Sgt. Amanda Tucker | Airmen from the 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron, a 49th Transportation Battalion subordinate unit, work behind the scenes to coordinate class I (rations) to class IX (repair parts) cargo and passenger transportation around Iraq using the C-23 Sherpa, a fixed-wing aircraft, while stationed at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.  

BALAD, IRAQ

07.13.2009

Story by Pfc. Amanda Tucker 

3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq — The airmen of the 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron have the mission to facilitate and coordinate air movement transportation for coalition personnel and cargo by using Army Sherpa aircraft in theater.

The 56th LGRS works behind the scenes to coordinate class I (rations) to class IX (repair parts) cargo and passenger transportation quickly using the C-23 Sherpa, a fixed wing aircraft. The Sherpa can transport approximately 3,000 pounds of equipment in one trip.

"Whenever we get cargo from any of our users, we can get it there normally overnight," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Marvin A. Smith, the Sherpa non-commissioned officer in charge for the 56th LGRS, and Marshall, Texas, native.

The 56th LGRS, a subordinate unit of the 49th Transportation Battalion, provide support to various units, ranging from coalition maintenance to medical units. The C-23 delivers to 16 locations in Iraq and Kuwait.

They prioritize cargo for air movement requests daily. Then "Space A" information is provided to the passenger terminal for passengers if room is available.

"It's good to know that I can help people that are in the little [forward operating bases] all over the place, especially the ones that need blood and other medical supplies that pass through here," Smith said

"I think [the 56th LGRS] came in very motivated," said Sgt. Paul S. Acosta, the Sherpa non-commissioned officer in charge for the outgoing 590th MCT, and Charleston, S.C., native. "Just by working with them the past couple of days, their mission will be as successful as ours."

The 56th LGRS ensures planes are used to their maximum potential. During each flight load, cargo can be grouped into different categories such as three pallets or 12 passengers, eight passengers and one pallet, or four passengers and two pallets.

"We're kind of like a FedEx for importing equipment," Smith said. "So far everything is working out very well."

The 56th LGRS has been in theater about a month and is comprised of approximately 20 airmen from different locations in the United States.

• Date Taken: 07.13.2009
• Date Posted: 07.13.2009 04:02
• Story ID: 36292
• Location: BALAD, IQ