CORT assists LRS Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Sutton
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Airmen from the 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron participated in Convoy Operations Readiness Training Dec. 6.

The CORT benefits LRS Airmen and F-15E Strike Eagle aircrew; the training provides targeting and elimination techniques while searching for the convoy.

"This is my first opportunity to get this type of hands-on training and I'm very excited," said Airman 1st Class Ethan Croce, 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle operator and dispatcher. "We are out here doing some high-visible target training to assist with the aircrew training of our fighter jets. We get to play as the opposition force ground convoys, which the jets must locate and eliminate."

By accomplishing CORT, Airmen gain valuable knowledge and education.

"This is the type of training that better prepares us for deployments as well as an opportunity to assist the fighter squadrons," said Tech Sgt. Patrick Mackey, 366th LRS NCO in charge of training and operations. "This is how we stay proficient and prepared for the future. Regardless of where we may potentially deploy, this is the training that keeps us combat efficient."

Airmen assigned to the 366th LRS can deploy at a moments notice to anywhere across the globe.

"The weather is the best part of this convoy training," said Mackey. "We never know what kind of environment we can be sent to. So the fact that there's snow on the ground and it's freezing is a real bonus. My Airmen are having to maneuver their heavily-armored vehicles across snow-covered roads while dealing with local traffic and wildlife."

The annual training is broken up into three phases. The first phase ensures members receive training in vehicle camouflage and dispersal, reaction to attacks and radio communications. The second phase covers convoy procedures and operations during blackout conditions. The final phase includes land navigation and a combat convoy operations exercise.

"This is the phase-three portion of their training," said Mackey. "We are out here practicing specific tactics like enemy attack scenarios, rock-drills, expedient recovery and many other operations which are necessary to survive in a real-world deployed environment."

Mackey, who has deployed multiple times, understands how vital this training is to Airmen on the ground and in the air.


"Sergeant Mackey has deployed downrange and uses his experience to teach job-specific training we will need when deployed in the future," said Croce. "This is how we specifically contribute to mission success throughout the combat Air Force."

366th LRS Airmen stayed positive despite the stress of a long day driving in rugged conditions, knowing how important accomplishing the CORT is.

"We are one of the first to go into new locations and assist in reconstruction efforts and as vehicle operators, we run supplies, people and equipment everywhere across the area of responsibility," said Mackey. "Throughout the Air Force, every LRS has the same requirements so no matter who deploys or from what base they go, the mission always comes first."