Incentive Flight Program

Published Sept. 3, 2008
By Staff Reports
52 FW/Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Master Sgt. Jesse Gariepy, 726th Air Mobility Squadron, prepares to take an incentive flight August 29, 2008. Sgt. Gariepy earned his incentive flight for winning Non Commissioned Officer of the Quarter at the wing level.

Name: Master Sgt. Jesse Gariepy

Unit: 726th Air Mobility Squadron

Duty title: production superintendent

Hometown: Fitchburg, Mass.

Years in Service: 14 years

Why joined: Educational travel opportunities

Family: Wife, Jennifer

Hobbies: Photography, computers, reading, outdoor activities and sports

Favorite aspect of job: Knowing the mission, each and every day, to support the Global War on Terror.

Most memorable Air Force experience: The F-16 Fighting Falcon incentive flight and when I was selected for promotion to Master Sgt.

Favorite part of F-16 flight: Takeoff and skimming the clouds

Previous flying experience: None

What award earned the flight: 52nd Fighter Wing, NCO of the Quarter

Any advice to future fliers or advice received before flight: The "Gs" are intense!! Be ready for them when the pilot tells you he's going to pull them.

Description of experience: The whole process, from training to the actual flight, was very clearly explained. The pilot, "Worm", was incredibly friendly and really made it a special experience by involving me in the entire flight. Actually, flying the jet, being able to pull Gs and do barrel rolls on my own was awesome. The flight really made me appreciate what fighter pilots do every day. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I'm honored to have been chosen.