Flight crew equipment maintainers ensure readiness at RARO 12

NAMEST AIR BASE, Czech Republic -- Senior Airman Brandon Keiper, 52nd Operations Support Squadron flight crew equipment maintainer, adjusts parts of a pilot's helmet as part of a 30-day inspection Sept. 10, during Ramstein Rover 2012 here.The 81st Fighter sqaudron is participating in RARO 12 to build partnerships and exchange tactics techniques and procedures with more than 16 NATO nations. A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 81st Fighter Squadron are providing close air support to partnering nations and practicing forward air control missions with their NATO allies in international security assistance force realistic scenarios throughtout the exercise. Participating in exercises like RARO 12 ensures effective employment of airpower in support of alliance or coalition forces while mitigating risks to civilians in contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Natasha Stannard/Released)