Delaware National Guard - DNG News 2002

After the initial flock of three UH-60A Blackhawks arrived from Germany, the fourth bird landed on September 22, by way of an Air Force C-17 cargo aircraft. Shortly after, the Aviation Facility sent a crew of eight full-time staff to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to receive two more Blackhawks. At the time this article is being penned, additional personnel from Company C and Company A are receiving maintenance and flight training on this airframe. Delaware’s total Blackhawk fleet now totals 6 birds. "Push Packages," consisting of the special tools and parts to maintain the Blackhawks, arrived November 4 along with 4 small Conex containers to be used to store the benchstock parts. This was only the first in a series of similar shipments.

Cpt. Darin Schuster receives the Guide on as the new company commander. Photo by Sgt. William Boeckelman.

Another noteworthy event occurring recently at the AASF was the change of command for Company C 2nd Battalion 126th Aviation. After two years in command, Cpt. Chris Dooner was promoted to Major, now moving forward to assume the role of State Aviation Safety Officer.

The new Commander of Co. C 2/126th Avn, Cpt. Darin Schuster, arrived November 16, bringing with him a wealth of skill and information. Cpt. Schuster is newly reassigned from active duty. His recent experience includes Blackhawk flight time.

The Co. C 2/126th prepares for change of command. Photo by Sgt. William Boeckelman.

Maintenance crews at work inside the C-17. Photo by Sgt. William Boeckelman.