118th JTAC first to receive hallowed graduate patch from USAF Weapons School
Members of the 118th Air Support Operations Squadron conduct FAST rope insertions at Stanly County Airport, New London, N.C., from an UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter of Company C, 1-131 AVN; North Carolina Army National Guard, April 8, 2014. Fast-roping, also known as Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System (FRIES) is a technique for descending a thick rope. It is useful for deploying troops from a helicopter in places where the helicopter itself cannot touchdown. The joint training mission allows both air and ground crews to hone their skills in planning and executing an air assault. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs/Released)