Warrior of the Month - Staff Sgt. Casey O'Neal

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  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Name: Staff Sgt. Casey O'Neal
Squadron/duty title: 944th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief
Time in Service: 10 years
Time with the 944th Fighter Wing: Two and a half years
Civilian Job: Air Reserve Technician at the 61st Aircraft Maintenance Unit
Hometown: Canadian, Texas
Hobbies: Spending time with my family, traveling, and fishing.
Home-life: I live in Surprise, Ariz. with my wife and son. We are also expecting a little girl in February.

Why did you join the Air Force Reserve?
After getting out of the Marine Corps and working for Lockheed Martin, I wanted to continue my military career.

How does your job support the mission of the 944th Fighter Wing?
As F-35A crew chiefs we are Total Force Integrated with active duty at the 61st AMU. We assist the 61st AMU with inspecting, maintaining, and servicing 23 assigned aircraft worth over 2.3 billion dollars. We also train reserve and active duty Airmen on proper maintenance procedures, safety, and documentation so that the pilots can train to be combat ready. We were vital in the 61st AMU completing the 25,000 F-35A sortie for Luke Air Force Base and the 944th FW winning the General Welsh Award. Our actions not only increased the 61st AMU’s capability, but the 56th Fighter Wing’s. We are here to fly, fight, and win.

If you were on a deserted island…..?
I would probably try to find fresh water, food, and shelter to survive until I can escape or I am rescued. I would also fish to pass the time and to keep from going crazy.