Air Antarctica: New York Guard unit delivers for scientific mission on the South Pole

National Guard, Apr 1999 by Bullock, Bob

"The environment puts you at peace," said Senior Master Sgt. Jerry Stoddard, whose job as life support superintendent requires him to spend more time in the elements than most.

The maintenance crew is highly trained with varying degrees of polar experience. Many are new to the organization, attracted by the opportunity to be part of the mission.

"I have seen seals, whales and penguins," said Senior Airman Ron Jemmatt, a maintenance squadron newcomer. "It's really interesting and great knowing that out of everyone in the world, you are one of a small percentage of people who will ever see Antarctica."

Only a few days after the return of its first few airplanes from Antarctica, the unit was on the road again for its first deployment of the season to Greenland. Until August, the 109th will be busy in the north supporting one of the most aggressive science seasons in years. Then they'll head back to Antarctica.

"Many of us in polar programs have worked in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres and have admired the work of the 109th on the polar ice caps," said Erick Chiang, NSF polar research support section head. "The 109th, following this first year as the Department of Defense's executive agent for Antarctic flight support, has demonstrated that our faith in their capabilities has been well-founded. This will be critical during the next five years as the [Antarctic program] works to rebuild the Amundsen-Scott station at the South Pole."

"We come from many backgrounds," Col. Graham Pritchard, wing commander. "Regardless of their individual backgrounds, the men and women of this unit are proud to be doing what they are doing."

The author serves as the public affairs officer for 109th Airlift Wing.