Yokota's one-of-a-kind squadron

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- 1st Lt. Melissa Hughes, 459th Airlift Squadron C-12 Huron pilot, prepares for a flight at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 14, 2011. The 459th AS is one of the few airlift squadrons in the Air Force with both rotary and fixed wing aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Krystal M. Garrett)

Yokota's one-of-a-kind squadron

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Staff Sgt. Andrew Schloemer, 459th Airlift Squadron flight engineer, prepares for a four-ship formation flight at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 14, 2011. The four-ship formation allows the squadron to test its capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Krystal M. Garrett)

Yokota's one-of-a-kind squadron

Published Oct. 18, 2011
By Airman John D. Partlow
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- While many Air Force bases around the world have operational support airlift squadrons, Yokota's 459th Airlift Squadron is one of the very few possessing both fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

"Our mission is very unique," said Capt. Anders Hedberg, 459th AS C-12 Huron flight commander. "We can go from a distinguished visitor support mission to a search-and-rescue mission."

One benefit of flying with the squadron is that it entrusts first-time pilots with many responsibilities.

"It allows younger pilots to build flying hours, get familiar with aircraft and general aviation and helps them develop leadership skills sooner than they would at another squadron," said Hedberg.

Though the squadron helps Airmen of its own, it also assists several Airmen in other Yokota squadrons.

"The 459th Airlift Squadron is an immeasurable help to the Defense Courier Station here," said Nicholas Mathews, Defense Courier Station defense courier. "They're a big help to us because they can usually support us on all of our missions. Our mission would be significantly hindered without their assistance."

In order to handle its mission, the 459th AS pilots and commanders must understand each other's professions and aircraft.

"There are some administrative challenges with having both helicopter and fixed wing crew members," said Lt. Col. Joshua Bowman, 459th Airlift Wing director of operations.
Members cannot effectively plan training and objective missions from Yokota without understanding the other aircraft in the squadron, he said.

"I feel fortunate being a part of this squadron," said Hedberg. "I'm glad I get to work with very capable and professional people every day."