An Cosantóir

| 15 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE and distinction, they stand ready to execute precision landings in even the most daunting of environments. Yet, as they bask in the glow of accomplishment, they know that their journey is far from over. Each winged insignia and squadron patch is not just a badge of honor, but a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and service, this is only the beginning. ADVANCED AIRCREW COURSE: Pushing the Boundaries With proficiency comes greater responsibility, and the Advanced Aircrew Course beckons with its promise of elevated challenges and heightened risks. From battling blazes as aerial firefighters to commanding daring parachute jumps from staggering heights, each task demands unwavering courage and unwavering skill. From Fast roping exercises with the renowned Ranger Wing to life-saving missions as part of the Air Ambulance team, every second is a heartbeat suspended in time, as crewmen help to navigate the skies with precision and purpose not only highlights but underscores the diverse roles as a helicopter crewman. Whether it's hoisting onto a moving ferry amidst the tumultuous waves or executing cliff rescues with the finesse of a master artisan, their commitment to saving lives knows no bounds, every completed mission is a testament to their dedication and expertise. Amidst the cloak of darkness, Night Vision Goggles emerge as silent sentinels, guiding the way through the darkness with unwavering clarity. Across treacherous terrain and in the depths of uncertainty, Night Vision Goggles become their guiding light, enabling them to navigate and execute complex maneuvers with unparalleled precision. From the urgent call of Emergency Aero-Medical Services to the clandestine whispers of Special Forces operations, the horizon of possibility stretches endlessly before them. With each mission, they write a new chapter in the annals of bravery, their actions speaking volumes of their unwavering dedication to service and sacrifice. A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE: Forging Ahead In the hallowed halls of No3 Operations Wing, every day is an adventure waiting to unfold. As the heartbeat of helicopter operations, their commitment to excellence knows no bounds. Whether it's a routine sortie or a high-stakes mission, their unwavering dedication ensures the seamless execution of every task. In the realm of helicopter crewmen, courage is their currency, and skill their greatest asset. For those who dare to defy gravity, the sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Amidst the echo of rotor blades and the whisper of the wind, there exists a brotherhood bound by courage and duty—the realm of helicopter crewmen. Within this illustrious domain, a sacred motto reverberates through the annals of time, a testament to their unwavering commitment to service: "Go Mairdis Beo" – So Others May Live AIRCREW SELECTION COURSE Q4 2024 The Aircrew Selection Process This is a week-long assessment that tests the candidates' ability to work under pressure in uncomfortable and volatile environments, also the ability to react and interact in hard and demanding situations on both land and in the water. The week long assessment begins in Casement Aerodrome with fitness assessment. Monday: In the morning it will be land orientated with LME test, Pull-up test and bleep test. In the afternoon we will conduct water fitness and confidence tests in the Curragh pool. Ability to work and perform in and around the water and the initial confidence jump test in the plunge pool. Patter sheets will be given to the candidates to learn for test flights on Wednesday and Thursday. Tuesday: Today we take the water confidence to the next level, Blessington lake is the venue for today's outing. We start off with a light PT to get warmed up and then a confidence bridge jump from the Baltyboys bridge, after successfully getting wet we then use the AW139 helicopter as a dryer and complete an open water test swim and downwash assessment. Presentation topics for all candidates will be given out today also. Wednesday and Thursday: All candidates will have to give a 5 minute presentation to the class on a topic chosen by the Aircrew Instructors. This is to assess their ability to talk to large groups and give briefs to all ranks. Test flights to assess how candidates interact with pilots and manoeuvre aircraft using the learned patter will be conducted over these days. Friday: On the last day an interview with the Aircrew Instructors and the Aircrew Training Officer will be conducted and the candidates' scores and placing on the panel will be delivered. Once panelled Aircrew General Purpose Courses will be ran on a needs basis, typically 4 candidates training in a single class. TECH FLIERS Sgt Darragh Callaghan For Aspiring Aircrew Technicians Checks A Mile High: The journey of a technical flier I joined No.3 Operations in 2019 as an Aircraft Technician. I knew early in my career within the Air Corps, my main goal was to become a Technical Crewman, also known locally as a Tech Flyer. To qualify for this position, you must be of Corporal rank in No.3 Operations Wing and a qualified Aircraft Technician. I was lucky to be selected for the General Purpose Aircrew Course in early 2023. The course included numerous briefs on flight safety, aircraft procedures, patter (the language we use to position the aircraft) and hours of practice with model helicopters. We then moved onto flying and landing the aircraft in open areas and confined areas around the Wicklow mountains. On successful completion of the course, I began flying solo and have been fortunate to have flown all over Ireland. As a Tech Flyer, we must accompany an aircraft travelling abroad. Thus, I've also had the pleasure of flying to the UK, Belgium, France and Spain (a little bit different to the Wicklow mountains). There are also many opportunities to up skill as a Crewman and Tech Flyer. Examples include flying under Night Vision Goggles, training for Cargo Slinging, Bambi Bucket Ops/Fire Fighting and Air Ambulance Missions. AC Crewmans course students performing Battle PT AC Crewman play a key role in all AC Heli Ops Being an AC Crewman takes nerves of steel

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