Aircraft generation preps, launches C-130J multi-ship Published May 17, 2024 By Staff Sgt. Tristan Truesdell 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- A multi-ship of eight C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron participated in an aircraft generation event on Yokota’s flightline May 15. U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Richard Burns, left, 374th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft mechanic, gives documents to Staff Sgt. Kwan Jang, 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of passenger travel, during pre-deployment function training at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 15, 2024. The function of a PDF line is to prepare service members’ documents, finances and answer questions before a deployment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman David S. Calcote) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Aircraft generations serve as a method for installations to prepare aircraft for aerial - in this case, airlift - operations on short notice. Ultimately, they showcase the installation and unit’s ability to swiftly deploy multiple aircraft to maintain airlift operations. With participation from the 36th AS and agency support from the 374th Maintenance Group and 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron, the aircraft took over the active airfield of Yokota Air Base with cargo secured and in tow. “Aircraft generation events measure our wing’s proactive and reactive logistics capabilities to demonstrate our ability to perform tasks given by our major command,” said 1st Lt. Patrick Kelly, 374th LRS plans and integration OIC. “Whether its training or real-world, these events provide our mobility functions with the necessary data and expertise to effectively move and receive assets as a hub-and-spoke location during any given contingency scenario.” U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron taxi across the flightline during an aircraft generation event at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 15, 2024. Aircraft generations showcase the installation and unit’s ability to swiftly deploy multiple aircraft to maintain airlift operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha White) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res During this generation event, the 374th LRS led the Deployment Reception Control Center, which serves as wing leadership’s nerve center to all operations concerning the generation. They translate the installation commander’s vision and intent to participating organizations and ensure synchronization, comprehension of timelines and requirements. “Working behind-the-scenes is dynamic and challenging. Very little will ever follow through as planned,” said Kelly. “Through regulations, policies and procedures, these efforts ensure quality and standardization as we collaborate to prepare and deliver assets in an ever-changing and high-stress environment.” Maintaining mission readiness and capabilities may seem as a mere goal, but in reality it is a continuous state of being at the 374th Airlift Wing. Through vigilance, training and dedication, airpower and airlift operations remain robust and ready here at Yokota Air Base due to the efforts of the Airmen at the forefront. U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 374th Airlift Wing walk toward a C-130J Super Hercules during an aircraft generation event at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 15, 2024. The 36th Airlift Squadron, the 374th Maintenance Group and the 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron participated in the aircraft generation event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha White) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “This generation event is more than just a demonstration of our capabilities,” said Col. Andrew Roddan, 374th AW commander. “It is a testament to our preparedness and our ability to rapidly execute airlift operations in our region. Our success in today’s aircraft generation is a result of the unwavering dedication and excellence from our Yokota Airmen and our mission.”