Senior Airman Andrew J Lightner Jr is a Dedicated Crew Chief on the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team and a member of the 192nd Fighter Squadron, attached to the 71st FGS/FTS. As a Crew Chief, he is responsible for performing detailed inspections, diagnosing malfunctions, replacing components, looking over aircraft maintenance documentation, and ensuring the aircraft is safe for aircrew to fly. He represents Air Combat Command, Virginia Air National Guard, the United States Air Force, and the Department of Defense at more than 20 air shows annually. His mission is to ensure the demonstration team has a quality aircraft available to perform a safe demonstration so that millions of spectators get the opportunity to see the F-22’s air superiority.
Lightner enlisted in the Air Force on February 4th, 2022. He is from Yorktown, Virginia where he graduated from York High School in 2021. From a young age, he has enjoyed everything aviation-related, sports, and surfing in his free time.
Assignments
2023 - Present: Assistant Dedicated Crew Chief, 192nd Fighter Squadron, Langley Air Force Base, VA.