Weapons crew loads up for RARO 12

Released by 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

9/14/2012 - Staff Sgt. William Maines, 81st Aircraft Maintenance unit weapons load crew chief, inspects a training bomb that was loaded onto an A-10 Thunderbolt II Sept. 12, during Ramstein Rover 2012 here. The A-10 is providing close air support for a forward air control training mission. A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 81st Fighter Squadron are participating in the NATO exercise to provide close air support to partnering nations and practice forward air control missions with allies in international security assistance force realistic scenarios. Participating in exercises like RARO 12 ensures effective employment of airpower in support of alliance or coalition forces while mitigating risks to civilians in contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Natasha Stannard) Hi-res

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