Page 10 - Luke AFB Thunderbolt, July 2021.

10 July 2021 News http://www.luke.af.mil
Thunderbolt
www.aerotechnews.com/lukeafb

warthog (from Page 1)
the pilots that fly it, there is a high level of affection
and respect for it.” Edkins said. “It has such a unique
purpose — people are very proud of it — and ground
troops depend on it. It is revered and respected and
the pilots’ dedication to the airframe is extremely
impressive.”
After a mission brief and lunch, the honorary
commanders ended their tour with a flight in the
A-10 simulator.
“Being able to witness the A-10 up-close is huge
but that simulator was unbelievably intimidating,”
Edkins said. “It’s a lot harder than it looks. I crashed
and burned.”
Edkins went on the say that this tour opened his
eyes to what he wasn’t aware he was missing.
“I think that a lot of folks don’t understand the
sacrifice and commitment of reservists that support
the greater good of our country,” Edkins said. “More
and more folks should step up and support this ini-
tiative — that’s what I’m coming away with. That’s
been my goal since signing up for the program, to
become exposed and to spread awareness.”
Even though these civic leaders are assigned to
944th units at Luke AFB, they seemed appreciative
to have been able to visit the 924th, and the group
was proud to host them.
“The Honorary Commander Program has been a
great addition to our unit,” said Col. Abel Ramos,
924th FG commander. “Even though we are a (Geo-
graphically Separated Unit), we feel the benefits of
having these civic leaders on our team. They work
hard to support us and they are dedicated to our Air-
men. That cross-talking and hands-on interaction is
a huge benefit to the Airmen down here at the 924th
FG as well as up there at the wing. It is a win-win
opportunity for all of us in the 944th.”

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