On November 8, Sheridan gathered at the local community center for a Veterans Day program that put the far‑flung continent of Antarctica on the minds of Wyoming residents. The speaker, Susan Wells, a 1987 graduate of Sheridan High School, recounted her two deployments to the icy south as a Navy polar navigator on the LC‑130 aircraft.
From Sheridan to the South Pole
Wells earned her coveted “Wings of Gold” after completing flight training and was first assigned to Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, where she served with VQ‑3 Squadron as an airborne communications officer aboard the EC‑130. Three years later she transferred to NAS Point Voodoo, joining the elite VX‑E6 squadron that provides logistical support for Operation Deep Freeze, the United States’ annual mission to resupply research stations on Antarctica.
During her two Antarctic tours, Wells piloted the LC‑130, a ski‑equipped version of the C‑130 Hercules designed to land on snow and ice. She described the challenges of navigating the polar vortex, the stark beauty of endless white horizons, and the camaraderie among the small crew that kept the mission running safely year after year.
A Local Hero’s Message
Dave McKee, the event’s host, introduced Wells by noting her deep roots in Sheridan and her continued commitment to serving the community. “She’s a true example of how a small‑town kid can make a big impact on the world stage,” McKee said.
Wells emphasized that the skills she learned in the Navy—discipline, teamwork, and a steadfast sense of duty—are values that resonate with families across Wyoming. She urged listeners, especially young people, to consider military service as a pathway to personal growth and to support veterans who return home with unique experiences.
Operation Deep Freeze: A Continuing Legacy
Operation Deep Freeze, first launched in 1955, remains a critical component of U.S. scientific research and national security. The Navy’s airlift capability ensures that researchers can conduct climate studies, glaciology, and astronomy in one of the planet’s most remote regions. Wells highlighted how the mission reflects America’s commitment to exploration and the preservation of knowledge for future generations.
She also noted that the Navy’s partnership with civilian scientists exemplifies the nation’s broader tradition of public‑private cooperation—something Wyoming’s own agricultural and energy sectors have long embraced.
Community Response
The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, and several local veterans approached Wells after the talk to share their own stories. Parents in the crowd expressed pride that a Sheridan native had served in such a specialized role, reinforcing the community’s respect for the armed forces.
In keeping with Sheridan’s strong family values, the event also featured a moment of prayer, led by a local pastor, thanking God for the safety of service members and for the opportunity to learn from their sacrifices.
Looking Ahead
Wells concluded by encouraging the community to stay engaged with veteran support organizations and to keep an eye on future Navy recruitment events in the region. Her story serves as a reminder that even the most distant corners of the globe—like Antarctica—are connected to the everyday lives of Wyoming families through the dedication of men and women in uniform.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
