A testimony to the long-standing partnership between Ramstein Air Base and the local German community is now in the skies with the naming of a Ramstein C-130 aircraft as the “Spirit of Ramstein” Thursday.
“Naming an aircraft promotes identity, fosters pride and enhances the bond between Ramstein Air Base and the German community,” said Lt. Col. Charles Webb III, 86th Maintenance Group deputy commander.
Members of the 86th MXG brought the idea to the wing commander after researching the U.S. Air Forces in Europe instruction authorizing wings to name one aircraft in its fleet.
The general granted permission for the group to proceed with the idea and selected the name “Spirit of Ramstein” for his flagship aircraft.
The process of designing the logo began, and many were submitted by the 86th Maintenance Squadron Fabrication Flight. The final design was chosen by the wing commander.
“The design was meant to symbolize the partnership that exists between the base, the community and the numerous German nationals that work on the base,” said Colonel Webb. “The maintenance community was glad to complete the project before the wing commander relinquished command of the wing, because we know how much time and effort he gave to foster community relations.”
The naming ceremony took place Thursday and was attended by distinguished guests, including Ramstein-Miesenbach Mayor Klaus Layes and wing members.
The ceremony represented “one more way in which we’ve bonded ourselves with the surrounding community,” said 86th MXG Commander Col. Parker Plumb. The wing commander echoed Colonel Plumb’s sentiments.
“The naming of our aircraft shows the wonderful relationship we share with our German friends and neighbors,” said Brig. Gen. Erwin F. Lessel III, 86th AW commander. “Over the years, the bond between our communities has grown and become stronger, and we will continue to foster that friendship for many years to come.”
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