Washington Commanders get first-hand experience with 1st Helicopter Squadron

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Matthew Braman

 Washington Commanders’ players and staff learned what it's like to operate at the 316th Wing during a visit with the 1st Helicopter Squadron May 9, 2023.

The Commanders saw the day-to-day operations of the 1HS and the equipment used by Airmen who fly and maintain the UH-1N Huey helicopter. The players experienced a virtual reality helicopter simulator and night vision headsets that the Huey pilots use every day.

"It was great to partner with Washington Commanders and give them a perspective of the Air Force many don’t get," said Lt. Col. William Root, 1st Helicopter Squadron commander. "It's our hope that they carry the message about the opportunities and the awesome work we do, day in and day out, to those who might never hear about the Air Force."

After a mission briefing, touring the facility, and testing out equipment, the Commanders flew with the 1HS and saw what the pilots and helicopters do within the National Capital Region.