NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Norfolk, Virginia, continues to support Defense Department activities at Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, with the Pacer Goose mission. This annual resupply mission is done in conjunction with NATO ally, Denmark.
“Pacer Goose is a critical undertaking that displays the unwavering commitment to maintaining operational readiness and support for the Space Force’s strategic outposts. This resupply mission ensures that American and other NATO personnel stationed in this and other remote but vital locations have the necessary resources to perform their duties effectively,” said Air Force Lt. Col. Heidi M. Millburg, deputy commander, 821st Space Base Group.
DLA Distribution Norfolk, Virginia, successfully loaded the transport ship with over 193,000 cubic feet of material weighing in at over 511 tons. It took over 50 workers and heavy machinery to completely load all the cargo.
Done between July and August when the arctic ice is low, Pacer Goose has been a recurring operation since 1952. The base is locked by ice nine months out of the year and during this window material that is oversized, has special requirements or is otherwise unfit for airlift is sent via sea.
The operation consists of two parts, on where cargo is initially loaded on for transport to Pituffik, and the other half where cargo from the previous year is brought back to DLA Distribution Norfolk, Virginia.
“The entire team operated safely and professionally for the complete duration of the upload mission, and stayed ahead of schedule despite the weather challenges with the heat and the rain. I am very proud of the team’s positive attitude and dedication to mission success,” said Navy Capt. Peter Braendeholm, commander, DLA Distribution Norfolk, Virginia.
Pituffik Space Base is the DOD’s northernmost installation, operated by the 821st Space Base Group, supports missile warning, missile defense and space observation. These critical operations are conducted with the support of Denmark to ensure mutual safety and defense.
This year will mark 27 consecutive years of support for the Pacer Goose mission from DLA Distribution Norfolk, Virginia.