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5th OSS: packing parachutes, saving lives

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alyssa M. Akers
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Airmen from the 5th Operations Support Squadron parachute shop pack back-automatic and drag parachutes at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. The aircrew flight equipment flight is responsible for maintaining and inspecting all life-saving equipment on the B-52H Stratofortress prior to each mission, and are on-duty for each take-off and landing to correct any potential aircrew-related equipment issues. Parachutes must pass a routine inspection every 30 days and are repacked after a year of non-use.  (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Alyssa M. Akers)