JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
On a high-profile installation, airlift missions are vital to both national security and security abroad. Distinguished visitors come from all corners of the globe to bring the world together and improve our posterity. It is on such a dignified installation that the mission is no more important than any across the Air Force, but it's certainly more challenging.
At Joint Base Andrews, 457th Airlift Squadron members handle the pressure and help set the standard for mission completion.
"Our mission is to provide safe and reliable operations support airlift to our nation's military and civilian leaders," said Lt. Col. Leif Eckholm, 457 AS commander. "We support high ranking generals, Department of Defense civilian leaders, Congressmen, and at times Cabinet members."
While utilizing aircraft such as the C-21, Airmen at the 457 AS airlift sensitive cargo on a daily basis and perform under the pressure of prestige to the best of their abilities. In addition, Every Airman is key to operation completion.
"Our Airmen have vital roles to play in ensuring that our airlift mission is conducted safely and reliably," said Colonel Eckholm.
Along with supporting the squadron's airlift mission, the 457 AS also deploys a steady number of squadron members.
"Throughout the [area of responsibility] we are constantly deploying Airmen," said Colonel Eckholm.
Other members of the 457 AS recognize the great job members its are doing.
"I feel like 457 AS members go above and beyond," said Master Sgt. Lena Amador, 457 AS NCO in charge of quality assurance. "Everybody really makes it a point to take pride in the mission, and that's what I think makes our unit unique."
Notably, 457 AS Airmen perform to a high standard with a smaller number of members than other airlift units.
"It makes us closer, more attuned and focused on what's going on," said Sergeant Amador. "The mission is very important. Since we have less manning, we have to go above and beyond to complete it."
Overall, 457 AS members are a close-knit family completing prestigious missions in a way that makes all members proud to be a part of the squadron.
"This is the best assignment I've had," said Sergeant Amador.