Blount named Tip of the Spear for July Published July 11, 2012 442nd Maintenance Group WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Senior Airman Joseph Blount is a traditional reservist performing A-10 Thunderbolt II C-model Repair and Reclamation technician duties. His steadfast dedication to the mission makes him the maintenance group's obvious choice for Tip of the Spear nomination. Blount came to the 442nd Fighter Wing in February 2011 and was assigned to the 442nd Maintenance Squadron in the R & R shop. He wasted no time getting up to speed on wheel and tire assembly breakdown and build up, flight control, throttle, landing gear, canopy, windscreen removal and rigging. He also worked diligently to gain qualification on crash damaged disabled aircraft recovery (CDDAR). Little did he know that his newfound knowledge would be well put to use. He was a critical member of the team that recovered a downed aircraft in July 2011 and successfully refurbished the aircraft in minimal time returning this vital asset to the flying schedule. Additionally, Blount filled a manning shortage in the R & R shop during the deployment to Afghanistan. He not only performed his R & R duties, he assisted with aircraft phase inspections as well. In February 2012, Blount deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Once again, his skill as a CDDAR team member would prove crucial for aircraft landing at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. While deployed, his team responded to in-flight emergencies on A-10s, C-130s, F-18s, EA-6Bs, F-15s, F-16s, MC-12s and UH-60s. He was also critical in the recovery of a C-23 that had run off the runway resulting in severe damage to the nose landing gear. Amazingly, Blount's team was able to lift the aircraft, replace the gear and tow it away in less than eight hours. Blount's dedication to duty is a testament to the men and women of the 442nd Fighter Wing and makes him the Tip of the Spear for July.