Brig. Gen. Joseph Osterman, the 1st Marine Division

Brig. Gen. Joseph Osterman, the 1st Marine Division (Forward) commanding general, removes Cpl. Jake Contreras' aircrew wings patch from his flight suit to place his newly earned combat aircrew wings in its place during a ceremony held at the Camp Bastion flightline Jan. 20. Contreras and five other Marines, all serving as aerial observers with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), received their combat aircrew wings at the ceremony. Osterman recognized the Marines for their efforts supporting infantry Marines of 1st MARDIV (Fwd) during their deployment. The combat aircrew wings must be earned while the unit is deployed. It is a prestigious distinguishing device as it is symbolic of Marine aviation's deep bond and commitment to supporting the infantry and coalition forces in Afghanistan.