274th grateful for Army support

  • Published
  • By Senior Airmen Duane Morgan
  • 174th Attack Wing
Over 30 Airmen from the 274th Air Operations Support Squadron (ASOS) will participate in the first joint training event with New York Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopter crews at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base and Fort Drum March 14.

"We are conducting joint air assault training with the New York Army National Guard's 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade in order to enhance our combat skills while we exercise our ability to plan and execute helicopter operations integrated with fixed wing close air support, " said Lt. Col. Patrick Cox, commander of the 274th ASOS.

Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) personnel from the 274th ASOS will conduct CH-47 helicopter familiarization training, safety briefings, and embark and debark training before flying to Fort Drum where they will train in CH-47 landing procedures and sling loading.

"We are grateful for the support of the 3-126 AVN and their enthusiasm to conduct this joint training with the 274th ASOS," said Cox.

The aircrews of two CH-47F Chinook helicopters are from Company B, 3rd Battalion, 126th Aviation based at the Army Aviation Support Facility at Rochester International Airport.

Wing officials said they intend to host future joint exercises.