100th AMXS crew chief plays vital role in 100th ARW mission

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  Day, night, rain, snow or shine - a crew chief's work is never done. Ensuring RAF Mildenhall's jets are launched safely and in good working order is the top priority for crew chiefs, which in turn allows the mission to get done.

Senior Airman Eric Wietstruk, 100th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, has been at RAF Mildenhall for five months, and in the Air Force for four-and-a-half years.

He plays a vital role in the 100th Air Refueling Wing's mission and is responsible for safely generating the multi-million dollar KC-135R Stratotankers, performing inspections and servicing the aircraft. The crew chief said it's his job to catch small problems before they become big problems.

"I also make sure new guys are trained properly, so they can do the job," Wietstruk said, adding that the Air Force has given the Warner Robbins, Ga., native a chance to travel around the world. "I've been to Hawaii, Guam, Wake Island, Japan, Alaska, Spain and Portugal - and other places as well!"

Describing himself as an "aircraft mechanic," Wietstruk explained that his work day is constantly changing. Usually working the 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift, his day begins with signing out his tools and finding out what jobs the expediter has lined up for him.

"Usually it will be about two to three longer jobs throughout the day, such as launch and recovery of aircraft, refueling, major maintenance such as removing or installing parts, or marshalling aircraft in and out. I'm usually just working out (on the flightline) all day," the crew chief said.

Besides fixing aircraft to keep them in tip-top shape, Wietstruk also helps wash the aircraft, which helps prevent corrosion.

As an Airman in the U.S. Air Force, he is an important part of the team accomplishing the mission.

"Knowing when a plane goes out and comes back safely, and realizing I had something to do with that, is what makes me proud of what I do," he said.

Wietstruk's supervisor said he is the embodiment of the professional U.S. Air Force maintainer.

"He marries technical expertise with solid determination and unfailing initiative," said Tech. Sgt. Scott Eidson, 100th AMXS Aircraft section assistant section chief, from Odessa, Texas.

"Everyone in the section knows that Senior Airman Wietstruk is a 'good' maintainer - but there's a difference between him and any other 'good' maintainer out there," said Eidson. He has the unique ability to inspire others, both higher and lower ranking, to achieve excellence."

The section said that it's impossible to work around Wietstruk without "bringing your A-game."

"He doesn't complain. He doesn't care if it's raining, snowing or sweltering outside - he just executes," Eidson said of his Airman.