Load crew of the year competition

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Staff Sgt. Charles Walker marks loading steps on his loading checklist as Senior Airman Thomas Hanes, 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, positions a 2,000-pound joint direct attack munition for loading and inspector Tech. Sgt. Richie Bill, 52nd AMXS, observes during the 52nd Fighter Wing Weapons Load Crew of the Year Competition Jan. 15. When following steps on a loading checklist, checklist status must be followed for 100 percent accuracy to ensure a safe and reliable load. . The 52 FW LCOY competition placed load crews from 2009's Weapons Load Crew of the Quarter competitions against each other to crown the weapons load crew of the year and consisted of a dress and appearance and composite tool-box inspection. The competition is still in action, and the winner has not yet been announced as the second quarter weapons load crew winning team is deployed. The contenders in the competition are from the 22nd, 23rd and 81st Aircraft Maintenance Units, and the winner will be announced Feb. 27 at the 52nd Maintenance Group Annual Awards Banquet. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Nick Wilson)