260810-F-GL460-1053
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Nicholas Palacios, 52nd Maintenance Squadron aircrew egress systems specialist, inspects an Advanced Concepts Ejection Seat II assembly with a flashlight at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Aug. 10, 2026. Meticulous maintenance of egress systems is critical for pilot survival, ensuring reliable ejection capabilities during in-flight emergencies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gretchen McCarty)