Washington Commanders get first-hand experience with 1st Helicopter Squadron

Photo By Senior Airman Matthew John Braman | Jake Fromm, a player for the Washington Commanders, tries on a helmet worn by the pilots of the 1st Helicopter Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Md., May 9, 2023. The football players were able to test out gear, such as night vision goggles, and learn how the 1HS crews use their gear to perform missions day and night. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew-John Braman)  

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND, UNITED STATES

05.10.2023

Story by Airman 1st Class Matthew John Braman 

316th Wing

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- Washington Commanders’ players and staff learned what it's like to operate at the 316th Wing during a visit with the 1st Helicopter Squadron May 9, 2023.

The Commanders saw the day-to-day operations of the 1HS and the equipment used by the Airmen who fly and maintain the UH-1N Huey helicopter. The players experienced a virtual reality helicopter simulator and night vision headsets that the pilots of the Hueys use every day.

"It was great to partner with Washington Commanders and give them a perspective of the Air Force many don’t get," said Lt. Col. William Root, 1st Helicopter Squadron commander. "It's our hope that they carry the message about the opportunities and the awesome work we do, day in and day out, to those who might never hear about the Air Force."

After a mission briefing, touring the facility, and testing out equipment, the Commanders flew with the 1HS and saw the capabilities of the pilots and helicopters within the National Capital Region.

• Date Taken: 05.10.2023
• Date Posted: 05.12.2023 10:36
• Story ID: 444465
• Location: JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND, US