302nd AW maintainer reflects on ‘Coronet Oak’ contributions

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Heldwin Brito
  • 302nd Maintenance Group
MUÑIZ AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Puerto Rico --  (Editor's note: Master Sgt. Heldwin Brito was assigned on temporary duty for one month to Muniz Air National Guard Base in Puerto Rico. There, he and other members of the 302nd Airlift Wing supported Operation Coronet Oak, a U.S. Southern Command mission focusing on several objectives, including the resupply of U.S. embassies, medical evacuation missions and support for U.S. troops in the region.)

Some members of the 302nd Airlift Wing spent Christmas 2008 deployed to Puerto Rico in support of Operation Coronet Oak, a mission serving the Americas since 1977. 

The presence of the United States military in this region goes back to the country's support of the Panamanian people as they sought independence from their neighbor to the south, Colombia. It also led to building the Panama Canal which catapulted ship travel to a new level and helped ease transportation in time of war and developed relationships in Latin America. Dictators had been removed from power giving the citizens back the citizens their freedom and democratic way of life. 

Our nation's presence has also aided and trained personnel that encouraged the evolution of democracy from previous oppression, ultimately leading to the halls of officials elected by their fellow countrymen. America has also been given a platform to perform countless humanitarian missions, aiding victims caught in natural disasters and providing crucial medical services as well as the construction of schools in remote villages. 

The U.S. has also played an essential role in removing drug dealers. People like Manuel Noriega of Panama can be so powerful they can bring a democratic government to its knees, silencing the voice of its people. 

Citizen Airmen from the Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard take part in these vital missions. 

During our time supporting Coronet Oak, we worked with members of the Puerto Rico ANG's 156th Airlift Wing providing support to help smooth the transition to a joint operation. 

The Puerto Rican ANG has changed airframes from F-16s Fighting Falcons to C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft and has provided the mission of airlift since 1998. The missions are diverse - changing from one day to the next but they always meet their objectives. 

The Christmas lights that decorated the streets and office buildings were small beacons of light that promised hope for humanity and brotherhood. As we headed back to Colorado, we remembered the great people of Puerto Rico and felt proud that we've met Air Force objectives and played a small part to in completing the picture making democracy great. 

What other Airmen said about their support of "Coronet Oak" 

"We have a moral responsibility to protect and promote peace. We are the guardian angels for our communities, allies and our nation. We play a small part to complete the greater picture. Our members work together to repair, launch and recover aircraft which keeps the sense of dedication and commitment to continue to serve the Americas." - Staff Sgt. Luis Rivera, 156th Maintenance Squadron
 
"We are the first line of response in this part of the world. We're a vital link to our embassies, counter-drug operations and emergency relief. As an American citizen, I take great pride in playing my part in giving our nation back its freedom and lifestyle." - Master Sgt. Orlando Guevarez, 156th MXS aerospace ground equipment flight chief 

"The people here are humble, proud and hopeful to do their best with the resources available in a challenging environment. This is a unique place and a unique mission. While this operation may not be as common as supporting contingencies in Iraq or Afghanistan, it's just as important to our standing in the world and our national security." - Staff Sgt. Paul Franklin, 302nd Logistics Readiness Squadron petroleum, oil and lubricants specialist 

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