This week’s Airman Top Shot comes from Tech. Sgt. Jana Somero!
“HALO jump” – Airman Magazine Feb. 28, 2025
U.S. Air Force pararescuemen assigned to the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron conduct High Altitude Low Open parachute jumps from a C-130 Hercules near Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Feb. 13, 2025. The technique minimizes risk to supplies, equipment or personnel as they are airdropped from high altitudes over enemy airspace.
“U.S. Northern Command immediately took action as we watched and learned more about the fires in the Los Angeles area,” Gen. Gregory Guillot, head of NORTHCOM, said in the release. “Providing support to civil authorities is a valued part of our homeland defense mission.” January 13, 2025
Using its aft loading ramp and door, the C-130 can accommodate a wide variety of oversized cargo, including everything from utility helicopters and six-wheeled armored vehicles to standard palletized cargo and military personnel. In an aerial delivery role, it can airdrop loads up to 42,000 pounds or use its high-flotation landing gear to land and deliver cargo on rough, dirt strips. – Air Mobility Command 11-04-2023
Fun Fact: The C-130 family represents the longest production run of any aircraft currently flown by the United States military. – Dyess Air Force Base.
We do see various C-130’s flying in and out of the airport in Palm Springs on a regular basis. You can often get a close-up look at them right from the sidewalk in front of Atlantic Aviation.
