Answering the Call: Rising to Meet Urgent Challenges

In an unexpected turn of events, a laboratory focused on fuel testing was left unmanned, necessitating the expertise of Ms. Michelle “Missey” Cox, a Regional Fuels Specialist based in Naples, Italy. With valuable prior experience in both the Marine Corps and a B2 lab at White Beach Okinawa, Cox was swiftly deployed to Rota with just four days’ notice to address the situation.

Cox had to familiarize herself with the lab’s unique procedures and processes during these four days, involving a thorough review of technical manuals and requirements. “It was nice to know I still had the skills,” said Cox. “I liked the challenge of doing something out of the box and being able to provide assistance to the team in Rota.”

The Rota lab is vital for supplying fuel to the sixth fleet, NATO, host nation ships, and transit aircraft. This comprehensive fuel management entails transferring fuel monthly, ensuring the airfield is stocked for flight line operations, and maintaining strict surveillance to prevent contamination. Any contamination could severely impair fuel system functionality.

Fuel testing is a meticulous process. For multi-product or single-product ships, tests can extend up to eight hours. Tests operate on a pass/fail scale. Passing fuel proceeds to its next destination, but if a failure occurs, retesting is crucial to rule out any human, sampler, or apparatus error. Persistent failure requires consultation with the Defense Logistics Agency for further action.

“No fuel moves until the lab tech says it’s okay to move it,” emphasized Cox. Her presence was crucial; without tested fuel, operations could not proceed, impacting driving, flowing, or flying activities.

Since March, Cox has been overseeing regional fuels in Naples. Her responsibilities include inspecting regional fuel sites for regulatory compliance, monitoring special projects and maintenance, and advocating for proper support and equipment.

“Being new to the job and the region, it really helped me get an idea of what the mission is, and it also gave me insight on how I could better assist them in my current job,” reflected Cox, highlighting the importance of her hands-on experience at Rota.