Crew chief safety: award of distinction

Combat Edge, Nov, 2004 by Chad Alexander, Adam Liller

On 17 June, 2004 SrA Chad Alexander and Amn Adam Liller of the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron were preparing to recover the B-2A "Spirit of Georgia" returning from a normal training sortie. As they marshaled the aircraft to its final parking spot, the number three brake became engulfed in flames. SrA Alexander immediately took control of the situation and instructed the flight crew to shut down engines and evacuate. SrA Alexander and Amn Liller ensured the safe evacuation of the crew and began combating the brake fire. Within a few seconds, they were able to extinguish the fire using a 150-pound Halon fire extinguisher. The quick reaction time and expert understanding of emergency procedures enabled SrA Alexander and Amn Liller to save lives and prevented the loss of a $2.2 billion B-2 stealth bomber. To their credit, the entire ground emergency was handled without any damage to equipment or injuries to personnel. Their superior actions are a testament to the caliber of men and women in the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

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SrA Chad Alexander, Amn Adam Liller,

509th Aircraft Maint. Sqdn., 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman AFB, Missouri