Lakenheath crew chiefs demonstrate response capabilities at local competition Published July 30, 2024 By Senior Airman Seleena Muhammad-Ali 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Crew chiefs from the 492nd, 493rd, 494th and 495th Fighter Generation Squadrons competed in a dedicated crew chief competition on July 12. The event featured two teams of F-15 Strike Eagle crew chiefs and two F-35 Lightning II teams, each tasked with changing the tire of their respective aircraft under a simulated time constraint. In the event of an emergency or rapid deployment of aircraft, the ability to perform such tasks ensures that the aircraft can return to the skies quickly and safely, maintaining the wing’s ability to provide worldwide responsive combat airpower and support. Crew chiefs must master every aspect of their assigned aircraft, from routine maintenance to complex repairs. As dedicated crew chiefs, they are specifically assigned a jet that they are responsible for overseeing inspections, cleaning, service, performing scheduled maintenance, and maintaining the jet in good working order. U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Josh Carillo, 494th Fighter Generation Squadron dedicated crew chief, and Senior Airman Daven Morgan, 494th FGS assistant dedicated crew chief, change a tire on an F-15E Strike Eagle during a dedicated crew chief competition at RAF Lakenheath, England July, 12, 2024. The competition allows for the crew chiefs to demonstrate their skill and teamwork to complete time-bound tasks designed to prepare them for operational demands. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Seleena Muhammad-Ali) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res The winner of the 48th Maintenance Group’s 2nd Quarter DCC Competition is the 494th Fighter Generation Squadron, represented by Senior Airman Josh Carillo and assistant dedicated crew chief Senior Airman Daven Morgan. "It's a great opportunity to demonstrate our technical skills,” said Senior Airman Josh Carillo. "Senior Airman Morgan and I are proud to represent the 494th FGS and uphold the standard."