AGERanger.com

When approached to do an article for Ground Support Magazine’s Military e-Issue about the AGERanger.com web site, I was pleasantly surprised. Excellent: Worldwide exposure for our AGE Warriors. But what direction should my ramblings take? Trust me, after 30 years in the Air Force, I sure can ramble on. What can I share that would interest readers and how shall I get it out? Structure Darryl, stay focused. So tackled the article with a man-in-the-mirror philosophy -- I interviewed myself:

Q: What is an AGE Ranger?

A: There is no doubt the current Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE) technician is versatile by trade; our initial skill-set dates back to the automotive engine/electrical repair field and later branched out to dedicated ground support equipment for aircraft systems to include hydraulics, air, heat, diesel and gas turbine generators, and much, much more. Additionally, as today’s aircraft become more sophisticated, the AGE technician/career has also evolved equally so to match technology. However, tacking “Ranger” on to our title is debatable; the meaning is rooted deep within our past and has manifested into many colorful stories.

Typically, when you hear "AGE Ranger," it is either preceded with or immediately followed up with “Danger is no Stranger to an AGE Ranger" (DINSTAAR).

Situation: Vietnam. AGE troops are guarding the inside perimeter of the base. Bad guys attempt to infiltrate and AGE “Rangers” thwart the effort, ensuring protection of aircraft. Hence, “AGE Ranger" started...and because we fear No Danger...Colorful yes, true...probably not.

Another popular version: Snipers would take pot shots at the troops servicing equipment near the base perimeter. When the AGE troops serviced equipment, one guy fell out to hitch while the other covered him with his rifle. The Security Police, upon seeing AGE troops on their way for servicing would note the weapons and were rumored to have said “there go the AGE Rangers.”

Both are intriguing. As a side note, I recall DINSTAAR as far back as 1976. It appears the meaning of DINSTAAR is and always will be rooted in our hearts and our inherent obligation to share with other AGE Rangers.

Coming full circle, an AGE Ranger is versatile, skilled in numerous facets of aircraft ground support equipment and absolutely fears no danger. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Q: What drove you to establish the web site?

A: Early 2000, I was speaking with several Airmen in their first term. They were contemplating a career change and seeking information on the AGE Career field. Needless to say, they came to the right office, rambled on and on. Unfortunately, I lost track of those youngsters and am not really sure if they made the move but, what stuck in my mind was their united question, “Is there a Web site we can go to?” Looking back, I am pretty sure they just wanted to escape my ramblings; however, the question remained.

I consulted several colleagues. No one knew of a dedicated site. Being a novice, picked up a program to help me establish an Internet presence and take our stories worldwide. What started as an evening hobby made its debut Aug. 5, 2000 as AGERanger.com.

From a meager beginning, we have expanded to well over 1,000 pictures of AGE Rangers and equipment, some of which date back to the 1950s. Our history, art, successes and challenges, and our AGE Mom (an incredibly remarkable and caring lady who has made a profound impact on AGE Rangers young and old). What we do and why we do it is just a click away.

Q: Who designed AGERanger.com and who makes updates?

A: No doubt, I am the keeper of the site. The design layout is simple at best, without all the wiz-bangs and bling-blings, it makes it far easier to update and hopefully just as easy for visitors to navigate. I still consider maintaining AGERanger.com a hobby, but expansion can only come from contributors. I receive information, suggestions, pictures and files on a daily basis from AGE Rangers all over the world. Sorting and packaging information for the Internet can be overwhelming at times, but sharing our/their message is what it’s all about now.