32 Dyess crew chiefs now 'own' their own C-130s

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Carolyn Viss
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (ACCNS) --  In a room packed full of work-weary warriors Oct. 6, 32 of Dyess' 317th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chiefs each were assigned their very own C-130 Hercules. 

This Dedicated Crew Chief assignment ceremony, the 317th Airlift Group's first, began a program here that is widely recognized on other bases: giving qualified noncommissioned officers the pride and responsibility of "owning" their own plane. 

"These particular crew chiefs will know their aircraft inside and out," said Chief Master Sgt. James Collins, 317th AMXS superintendent. "They will be able to maintain them more efficiently, and having that responsibility will build an even greater sense of pride in each one." 

In order to be chosen as a DCC, a maintainer must have at least six months of experience working on their specific aircraft as well as be a staff sergeant or above, the chief said. Assistant crew chiefs are often assigned to specific aircraft as well, so the DCCs may "bring up" the younger generation. 

The crew chiefs were inducted using the mechanic's creed, and even the DCCs who were absent due to deployment were recognized with cheers and applause. 

"This assignment is a higher degree of responsibility reserved for those who display the leadership and management (skills) necessary to maintain an aircraft for combat readiness," said Col. Bernard Mater, 317th AG commander. 

With very complex aircraft taking off and landing in support of combatant commanders daily, the selection of DCCs is vitally important, said the commander of Air Mobility Command's premiere airlift group. Only the most qualified individuals with mechanical knowledge and proficiency, personal integrity, and motivation are chosen. 

"The term ownership implies control over property," Colonel Mater said. "In the Air Force, becoming a DCC does not come automatically. It can't be purchased, stolen or found; it is for those who daily demonstrate excellence." 

In essence, the plane belongs to the DCC, Chief Collins said. How it looks and performs is a direct reflection of the DCC's maintenance, management and leadership abilities. 

"Revitalizing the DCC program here at Dyess will instill a sense of ownership and pride," said the chief with 24 years of experience. "The responsibility is not taken lightly. These Airmen have accepted the responsibility of an asset that costs more than $30 million and the additional challenge of taking care of an aircraft well over 30 years old -- in many cases, an aircraft even older than themselves. This says a lot about the caliber of Airmen we have in the 317th."