The Logistics Behind the Mission: Inside the Traffic Management Office
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. – Throughout the warehouse, sounds echoed as ratchet straps were pulled tight and wooden pallets were secured. Nearby, a forklift’s warning beeps blared as Airmen worked to move and document cargo, preparing it for transportation to support mission requirements.
The Traffic Management Office is pivotal to the 163d’s mission. They manage the movement of cargo and equipment required to sustain MQ-9 Reaper operations. Shipments range from mission-critical aircraft components to maintenance equipment.
Another facet of the career field is arranging transportation for deploying troops, personnel on temporary duty assignments, and trainees traveling to basic military training.
Two members keeping cargo moving are Senior Airman Austin Izumi, a cargo operations specialist, and Tech. Sgt. John Chung, noncommissioned officer in charge of TMO, both with the 163d Logistics Readiness Squadron.
“I focus on receiving, securing, and processing assets,” said Izumi. “I evaluate for any shortages or damage to aircraft or cargo parts.”
Cargo accountability and precise documentation are Izumi’s top priorities before any shipment leaves the warehouse. On a daily basis, the team prioritizes high-priority assets, working hand-in-hand with ground transportation to expedite movement. This direct pipeline ensures crew chiefs receive vital aircraft components without delay, directly sustaining the MQ-9’s fully mission-capable status.
TMO also manages shipments of hazardous materials, such as explosive munitions, which require extensive documentation. Members are required to take a HAZMAT course and be certified to handle such shipments.
“During exercises especially, such as Resolute Forces Pacific, things get busy,” said Chung. “There are tons of HAZMAT shipments that need to be reviewed and packaged.”
Despite the demanding workload, TMO keeps cargo moving, solidifying its essential role in mission readiness and driving the team’s sense of purpose.
“It won’t go without TMO,” said Chung. “It's rewarding when we get to move shipments. Whether it’s a mission-essential item or passenger travel, it's a very fulfilling feeling to get people and cargo out the door where they need to go.”
Every part delivered by TMO directly fuels the 163d Attack Wing's mission to deliver global combat airpower, agile combat support, and defense of the homeland. By managing the movement of critical assets to keep MQ-9 Reapers fully mission-capable, TMO embodies the wing’s commitment to maintaining a ready force and prevailing in any operational environment.
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