Airborne Airman Published Aug. 3, 2006 By Tarsha Storey 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Jumping from a flying aircraft is part of training for some Airmen. For Airman 1st Class Trey Williams, 20th Medical Support Squadron, jumping out of a "perfectly good airplane" is a hobby, and floating in the air at 14,000 feet is complete freedom. "Skydiving is almost like the feeling prior to the first drop on a rollercoaster. After you jump and the forces equalize, you're just floating there, enjoying the view," Airman Williams said. The Air Force requires safety briefings and proper training prior to any member participating in a skydiving activity, according to AFI 91-202, The U.S. Air Force Mishap Prevention Program. Prior to his first jump, Airman Williams was required to receive a safety briefing from his commander. All skydivers are required to receive this briefing at each base when they PCS. This briefing is to ensure a member is properly qualified, licensed and prepared to take the jump. Each skydiver is also required to be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration prior to jumping without the aid of an instructor, Airman Williams said. Even though many people equate skydiving with danger, Airman Williams said it's not as dangerous as it may seem. If all the proper safety procedures are followed, there are very few emergencies. One of the ways Airman Williams said the FAA helps skydivers avoid danger by requiring divers to have the FAA pack their reserve parachute. Divers must jump within the 120-day window after having their reserve chute packed. Some skydiving sites also require an additional safety device designed to pull your reserve parachute if the diver is unable to, Airman Williams said. Airman Williams said his love for skydiving started during his time in the Air Force Academy. During the summer prior to his sophomore year, he participated in the academy's summer skydiving program -- a five-jump course designed to qualify cadets to receive their jump wings. After completing the five-jump course, Airman Williams tried out for the Wings of Green, a parachute team that teaches the basic five-jump skydiving course. After completing his year with the Wings of Green, he went on to become part of the Wings of Blue, the academy's skydiving demonstration team. During this time, Airman Williams said he left the academy and married his sweetheart, Marlena. He said his wife is encouraging him to work for his instructor's rating so he can take her up for a jump. Many of Airman Williams' coworkers have also expressed their feelings about his hobby. Some feel it is extreme, while others commend his abilities. "I think Airman Williams' hobby is cool. He's a model Airman and an awesome troop," said Staff Sgt. Amber Fairless, 20th MDSS, Airman Williams' supervisor. Airman Williams said he has completed 281 jumps so far and plans to take many more. "Some people still think I'm crazy for jumping out of a 'perfectly good airplane.' I love skydiving and I plan to continue jumping for the rest of my life," said Airman Williams.