Jacob Richards now in Texas

Air Force Airman 1st Class Jacob B. Richards graduated from the Utilities Systems Apprentice Course at Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, Texas.

The course is designed to train students in water processing, analysis, operating principles of water treatment plants, maintenance of water and waste water, fire suppression and backflow prevention systems and components; and maintenance and repair of water supply, waste, fuels, and natural gas systems.

The training included monitoring systems operation to ensure efficiency and compliance with safety and environmental regulations for hazardous materials; performing inspection, recurring maintenance, and seasonal overhaul on systems and components; troubleshooting malfunctions and removing, repairing, and replacing defective components; and modifying equipment for specific missions or to increase efficiency.

Richards is the son of Sarah Richards of Berkeley Springs.

He is a 2010 graduate of Massaponax High School, Fredericksburg, Va.