YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- 910th prepares for C-130

In 1971, the Air Force Reserve unit at the Youngstown Municipal Airport became the 910th Special Operations Group, flying A-37 fighter-bombers in a close air support mission. From then, until the early 80s, the sound of the Dragonfly's twin General Electric J85-GE-17A turbojet engines thundered over the Mahoning Valley.

In 1980, the 910th began its transition into the 910th Tactical Airlift Group, which would fly the C130B aircraft. After completing an Air Force inspection, Col. Jack Skinner, then commander of the 910th Tactical Fighter Group, addressed the group in the 910 Flyer regarding the transition.

The following article is taken from the November 1980 910 Flyer.


From the November 1980 910 Flyer

Still in fighters, but..

"We are a tactical fighter unit and we will maintain our combat ready status as long as we have that designation," Group Commander Col. Jack Skinner said after the recent inspection was completed.

Colonel Skinner added that with the inspection out of the way the unit will be stepping up preparations for next spring's conversion to C-130s. Lt. Col. Ed Koporc has been appointed aircrew project officer for the transition and Capt. William Chester will cover support areas.

They will serve as focal points for all questions about what is going to take place, Colonel Skinner said.

"The Aerial Port Squadron, which will be a critical part of our new operation, will be activated on Jan. 1, 1981," Colonel Skinner commented." So we are already looking for people to fill those positions." Anyone interested in cross-training into one of the many positions can talk to Captain Chester or Colonel Koporc about the necessary job qualifications.

They have asked that all those interested in the positions write out a background description of themselves. They said that by doing this they can keep track of all applicants.

Colonel Koporc is a full time base employee and can be reached at ext. 390.