U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. John Schmidt, 820th Combat Operations Squadron (COS) NCO in charge of aircrew flight equipment, raises a flag that assists the drop-zone team in recognizing wind direction, Oct. 3, 2017, at the Lee Fulp drop zone in Tifton, Ga. The 820th COS’s four-person shop of parachute riggers are responsible for ensuring every 820th Base Defense Group parachute is serviceable, while also ensuring ground safety at the drop zone. The team has packed and inspected more than 490 parachutes in 2017. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Daniel Snider)