Dover reservists train, strengthen readiness in the Pacific Published April 16, 2025 By Staff Sgt. Shayna Hodge 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- More than 40 members from the 512th Maintenance Group completed annual tour training at Yokota Air Base, Japan, March 10-21, 2025, to enhance their readiness and combat capabilities. The group, comprised of the 512th Maintenance Squadron and the 512th and 712th aircraft maintenance squadrons, supported four units – the 374th Maintenance Group, the 374th Maintenance Squadron, 374th Force Support Squadron and the 730th Aircraft Mobility Squadron. During their two-weeks’ time at Yokota AB. The reservists performed maintenance operations on C-17 Globemaster III aircraft and administrative functions. “With the Air Force’s shift to the Pacific theater, this annual tour is a great opportunity to expose our Airmen to the Pacific Air Force and U.S. Indo-Pacific commands, so they’re prepared for the next strategic competition should it arise, said Capt. Nick Lillo, 712th AXMS director of operations. Hands-on Training in a Dynamic Environment Maintainers from the 512th MXG — specializing in avionics, electrical and environmental systems, propulsion and other maintenance areas accomplished critical tasks during day and night shifts that supported Yokota’s mission of rapid global mobility. The reservists launched and recovered six C-17 aircraft, completed several basic post-flight operation inspections, refueled multiple aircraft with a total of more than 500,000 pounds of jet fuel and supported the movement of over 155,000 pounds of cargo and 88 passengers. Col. Jerome Rogers, 512th MXG commander, spoke on the maintenance operations at Yokota AB, highlighting how valuable training at the air base was. “It’s all about keeping the mobility machine moving,” he said. “The challenges and vastness of the Indo-Pacific theater makes experience here critical for all Airmen. Our training here has turned our maintainers into plug and play assets for future requirements and provided them with lessons learned they can bring back to home station to help others prepare for potential operations in this environment.” For many of the maintainers, operating at Yokota AB was a first-time experience. Staff Sgt. Duane Williams, 712th AXMS avionics technician, mentioned how the training broadened his perspective on working in an unfamiliar environment and the Air Force’s expectations of Airmen operating within PACAF. “Working at Yokota (AB) gave me a look behind the curtain of what would be expected of me if I had to support operations in this theater,” he said. “It allowed me to step into similar but different shoes and gain a new perspective on how things are done on different flight lines.” Airmen who normally maintain a fleet of C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft at their home station of Dover Air Force Base, also received hands-on training in executing maintenance work on the C-17s. “Our C-5 mechanics have been exceedingly willing to fold in with their C-17 colleagues,” said Lillo. “There’s been a lot of cross training and familiarization with different airframes, which has been a level of flexibility that’s been refreshing to see.” Both the C-5 and C-17 mechanics received additional training that aligned with the mission ready Airman framework that seeks to equip Airmen with the necessary skills to perform duties outside their assigned career field, when and if needed. Dover’s maintainers worked alongside fellow reservists from the 74th Aerial Port Squadron, Joint-Base San Antonito, Texas, to build two pallets that held approximately 40 bags of mobility gear. “Working with the aerial porters was an awesome learning experience,” said Master Sgt. Phyllis Sackey-Solomon, a C-17 crew chief assigned to the 712th AMXS. “At first, it was a bit challenging; but overall, working with the aerial porters hands on helped me appreciate and understand the logistics behind air transport.” After building the pallet, the maintainers took to the flightline to show the aerial porters how they launch and recover, refuel and perform inspections on C-17 aircraft. “A lot of the aerial porters were surprised at how much coordination and attention to detail goes into even the smallest task,” said Sackey-Soloman. “Overall, training with them was a good opportunity to build mutual respect for the work we both do and that keeps the mission going.” Overcoming Challenges While the maintainers successfully executed maintenance operations, they did so under cold and windy weather conditions, with some even facing snow as it fell on Yokota’s flight line. Several Airmen added the different flight line layout was also challenging, as was the 13-hour time difference between home station and Yokota AB. Senior Master Sgt. Joey Therrien, 712th AMXS flight chief, explained these real-world stressors are one reason why off-station training is essential. “Putting our Airmen out of their comfort zone is a good thing,” he said. “It tests them and shows them what it would be like to operate in an austere environment.” Training for Contested Environments In addition to accomplishing maintenance work, the reservists completed an exercise that tested their ability to operate in a simulated, contested environment. Trainers presented the reservists with various scenarios that tested their proficiency in donning and removing chemical protective gear, performing maintenance tasks in the protective gear, conducting post-attack reconnaissance and cordoning unexploded ordnances. "Our primary objective was to evaluate our members’ ability to think innovatively and respond swiftly under high-pressure scenarios,” said Master Sgt. Jason Jones, 712th AMXS avionics technician, who cooperated with Master Sgt. Elrico Edwards, 512th AW Inspector General exercise planner. “I'm proud to say the team performed admirably, demonstrating mental agility and system proficiency to navigate situations efficiently, while showcasing their adaptability and commitment to the mission when faced with challenges.” Beyond the Flightline Off the flightline, C-5 mechanics completed four hours of virtual simulation training that allowed them to practice nitrogen servicing and applying external power to a C-5 M aircraft. Over at the 374th MXS, three 512th MXS members researched and programmed specifications for three jettison pin pull housing brackets needed for grounded C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to return to service. Tech. Sgt. Christopher Beger, a 374th MXS maintainer said he was glad the Dover reservists were on station, because, they helped speed up the repair process for a few of the aircraft. On the administrative side, two commander support staff from the 512th AW and 512th AMXS assisted members from the 374th FSS with processing more than 600 pieces of incoming and outgoing mail at Yokota AB’s post office - a task completely different from their typical CSS duties. Additionally, two maintenance management production specialists worked alongside personnel at the 374th MXG to plan and schedule aircraft maintenance and repair operations. Mission Accomplished After two weeks of intensive training, collaboration and mission-essential work, the 512th MXG boarded a C-17 Globemaster III to return to Dover. Reflecting on the annual tour, Therrien praised the team’s dedication to the mission. “Our Airmen performed at a level that far exceeded our expectations,” he said. “They went after the mission with enthusiasm, initiative and drive and did a great job of taking on every task given to them.” Therrien also expressed his gratitude for Yokota AB’s welcoming nature and the continued need for partnerships in the Pacific theater. “Yokota (AB) has been a staple for the 512th Airlift Wing to showcase our abilities and skills,’ said Therrien “Given the current strategic focus on the Pacific, I think Yokota is going to continue to be a great location for our Airmen to come and train. Performing our annual tour here resonated with the Ready Now, Transforming for the Future posture that (Air Force Reserve Commander) General Heely has communicated to the Air Force Reserve Command. So, we’re happy we came to Yokota and were able to provide our airmen with new experiences that will enhance their readiness now and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.”