Troopers from the Kansas Highway Patrol Air Support Unit recently recognized the Salina Airport Authority maintenance crew for their outstanding assistance during the winter months with a certificate of appreciation.
“The efforts of ‘Gunner’ Wiles and Loren Carleton are greatly appreciated,” said East Region Commander Major Mark Goodlowe. “It is my understanding that these gentlemen ensure snow and ice are removed from the hangar door area. They have provided urea ice melt when necessary. They have assisted Technical Trooper Joe Ziegler in pushing the KHP aircraft into the hangar during the winter months when icy conditions did not permit the use of a tractor. I am extremely pleased to know that the relationship between the Kansas High Patrol and Salina Airport Authority is such that helpful assistance is offered when needed.”
“We always put them on a high priority to make sure they can get their aircraft out and they can get into their parking lot,” said Carleton, who heads the airport’s maintenance department. “We do everything we can to help them so they are ready to go anytime they need to.”
Keeping the hangar door area clear of snow and ice ensures the ability to launch at a moment’s notice, he noted.
“I never have to ask for help,” said Ziegler. “They are there right away. Once, when the apron was solid ice I couldn’t get the helicopter back in the hangar with my tug. Three guys came over and helped push it in.”
“It’s our small part we can do so that the aircraft can get in the air to support troopers and citizens on the ground,” said Airport Authority Executive Officer Tim Rogers, A.A.E.
