MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron's Flight Operations Department celebrated a milestone by reaching 60,000 Class A mishap-free flight hours Jan. 8.
The department achieved this by having no accidents which resulted in the loss of life or damage in excess of $1 million.
Although FOD now only flies C-12s, many of the unit's 60,000 hours were flown in a variety of different aircraft such as the C-117 airplane and the HH-46D Search and Rescue Helicopter to provide Marines in the Far East with operational support for personnel and cargo movement flights.
"Last year alone we completed more than 2,800 flight hours and transported nearly 1,800 passengers," said Lt. Col. Thomas Abel, FOD commanding officer. "Without the focus and dedication of all the Marines involved, a feat like this could have never been accomplished."
Over the years FOD has adapted to the Station's ever-changing needs, flying missions to and from Korea, Guam, Thailand, Okinawa, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore and Iwo Jima while holding strong to its standard of excellence.
Since the unit is currently using two small aircraft, a three person crew is required, making teamwork an essential part of such an accomplishment.
"The crew chiefs play a very active role in the cockpit alongside the pilot and copilot by monitoring gauges, performing preflight checks and keeping a third set of eyes on the ground below," said Col. Dave Darrah, FOD transport plane commander. "All of the Marines involved perform their job in a very professional manner, ensuring things are done right the first time."
Gunnery Sgt. John Idland, FOD crew chief, agreed that teamwork and cooperation play a vital role in the squadron's success.
"Our crew's coordination is unparalleled by any other squadron I've ever worked with," said Idland.
The Marines of FOD have maintained their mishap-free flight record since 1971 and have no intentions of letting it go now.
"This is a pretty significant accomplishment, now it's up to us to keep it going," said Capt. Tim Baughman, FOD operations officer.