MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Gunfighters from the 366th Fighter Wing joined with Travis and Fairchild Air Force Bases for combat training scenarios during Gunfighter Flag 16-1.

The exercise prepared of airmen for deployment with scenarios including first-aid, graded aircraft launches and suspicious packages. The exercise also provided proficiency training for aircrews. 

"Our whole purpose for this exercise was to practice those critical elements that we're requiring our personnel to deploy with," said Tech. Sgt. Ester Werstler, 366th Security Forces Squadron flight chief.

During the training exercise, airmen from the 366th Medical Group, 366th Force Support Squadron and 366th Security Forces Squadron from Mountain Home AFB as well as the 141st Medical Group from Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, set up a mobile operating air base.

The 366th FSS set-up tents while SFS embarked on convoys to train the newest defenders on how to approach an improvised explosive devices, react to various threats and transport casualties to safety while in a deployed location.

The simulated casualties were created by a team of volunteers around the base. The team used makeup on actors and dummies to simulate realistic injuries. This helped airmen immerse themselves in the exercise and react to what they saw rather than having to read injuries off of an information card.

"We are participating in this exercise to be prepared for any and all surgical intervention needed to stabilize and transport the patient in the event we are sent to a deployed location," said Captain Amanda Roby 141st MDG operating room nurse. 

Gunfighter Flag 16-1 made it possible for various personnel to work as a team to accomplish the mission.

"In addition to outstanding ops and maintenance group integration of flying and fixing jets, Gunfighter Flag 16-1 allowed many units to accomplish part-task training events," said Lt. Col. Paul Heitmeyer 366th Fighter Wing chief of plans.

Click the links below to view more about what the 366th Medical Group, 366th Force Support Squadron and 366th Security Forces Squadron did during Gunfighter Flag.

Operating as a team: http://www.mountainhome.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123463285

Supporting the Air Force: http://www.mountainhome.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123463393

Everyone's a defender: http://www.mountainhome.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123463458