MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine fighter pilots, on a regular basis, fly practice missions with inert ordnance, but the opportunity to train with live munitions is a real learning experience.
Aviation ordnance technicians are trusted with the responsibility of handling, installing and arming the Marine Corps' arsenal of aviation ordnance.
While the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 212 Lancers were deployed to Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 1-20, the squadron's 30 ordnance technicians played a vital role in the overall success of the training.
Preparations for the deployment began in September when VMFA-212 ordnance contacted Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 with a list of the ordnance that would be needed and where the order was to be sent.
After the anticipated arrival of the Lancers, ordnance technicians worked 12-hour shifts as they conducted electrical and system checks on the jets before the ordnance was installed. Once it was verified that the aircraft were safe to be loaded, the technicians began the final preparations.
Using hand signals and voice commands, team leaders directed load operators into position while two to three team members worked to align and secure the bombs to the carriages on the underside of the jets.
Once all the jet's munitions were deemed secure, an ordnance technicians climbed into the cockpit to conduct final system checks.
After arming was complete, the pilot gained total control of the weapons harnessed under his Hornet's wings as he took to the skies in search of his target.
This tedious process was repeated step by step for the arming of each F/A-18 Hornet.
"There is no room for mistakes in this line of work," said Gunnery Sgt. Darren Gallagher, VMFA-212 Ordnance staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge. "We strive for precision every time."
While deployed, the Lancers' ordnance technicians got the opportunity to work with live air-to-ground M-20 cluster bombs and air-to-air side winder missiles.
"This deployment was the first time a number of the newer Marines were able to get their hands on the real deal (live ordnance)," said Gallagher.
Having an equal number of qualified Marines and junior Marines can have its benefits, Gallagher explained.
"During this deployment we were about 50/50, and that's optimal for passing on the skills and valuable knowledge of this trade," said Gallagher.
Lance Cpl. Kenneth Jacob, VMFA-212 ordnance technician, couldn't agree more.
"It was a good learning experience due to the great instructors and team leaders we had," he added.
After nearly three weeks of intense hands on training the ordnance technicians of VMFA-212 achieved a 98 percent expenditure, and the common bond ordnance men share was strengthened as their mission came to an end, noted Gallagher.
"Ordnance men are a tight bunch, and an accomplishment like this will only bring the shop closer," said Gallagher.