37th FTS IPs conduct off-station training, train Notre Dame AFROTC cadets

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Instructor pilots and 22 T-6 Texan IIs from the 37th Flying Training Squadron recently returned from a TDY to South Bend, Indiana, where they conducted instructor continuation training for end of year requirements and were also able to work with cadets from the Notre Dame Air Force ROTC detachment 225.

From Sept. 6-10, the 37th FTS accomplished 188 sorties and also increased knowledge and proficiency for all IPs in an off-station training environment.

“This training was huge,” said Capt. Richard Ross, 37th FTS IP. “It proved that we as IPs can conduct flights off home station in a safe and organized manner. It also required IPs to thoroughly plan and provide procedures to those conducting the familiarization flights due to the fact that this was non-standard and not at Columbus (Air Force Base, Mississippi).”

The 37th FTS was also invited to fly over the Notre Dame versus Ball State game at Notre Dame Stadium and meet with Notre Dame AFROTC cadets. The IPs were able to work closely with the cadets to demonstrate some of the training the pilot community goes through to ensure proper pilot training on a daily basis.

It’s not an everyday occurrence that cadets are given the opportunity to fly, but 16 cadets were given that chance. They were screened by Columbus AFB medical personnel and received all required training with Airmen from the 14th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment and egress trained personnel before flying.

First Lt. Alexandra Taylor, 37th FTS instructor pilot, said she was thrilled for what the cadets were able to experience.
“Not only seeing the excitement and motivation in the cadet's expressions, but being able to travel a flying squadron to the ROTC home station and inspire the cadets toward a career in aviation is pretty rewarding,” she said.

To make the training happen, it took a lot of planning and coordination with multiple squadrons and agencies. Because of the harmonization between IPs, flight doctor, AFE personnel, aviation resource managers’ responsibilities accomplished prior to departing and having fixed base operation personnel in South Bend, the training was successful.

The crew took advantage of the opportunity to not only train in an unfamiliar location, they also took the time to mentor future Air Force officers and possibly recruit some fans at the football game.

“We were fortunate to motivate Notre Dame ROTC cadets for future aviation service through static displays, flybys, familiarization flights, Q-and-A sessions and further mentorship,” Taylor said. “We were able to expand Air Force presence and recruitment through public affairs with the four-ship flyover and involvement with the ROTC detachment and community of Notre Dame.”