Gunfighters prepare to fight, survive in chemical environment

  • Published
  • By Airman Shane Phipps
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Gunfighters donned their Mission Oriented Protective Posture gear last week during an Operational Readiness Exercise in preparation for combat operations and an upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection here.

"The primary function of this exercise is to make sure we are ready to deploy combat air power in any environment," said Col. Ron Buckley, 366th Fighter Wing commander.

The exercise aimed to prepare Airmen for hostile situations involving chemical warfare by providing realistic scenarios, which served as tangible threats to Gunfighters.

"In the scenario, the enemy has demonstrated a willingness to use chemical weapons against us, so our strategic intent is to deny and deter their use of chemical weapons against us and our allies," Lt. Col. Michael Olsen, Inspector General Inspections and Warlord for the ORE.

Within one demanding week, Gunfighters from all over the base practiced essential skills to efficiently execute their duties in an adverse environment.

"It was hard work, but I learned a lot," said Airman 1st Class Kristen Eliason, from the 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron.

With the exercise behind her, Airman Eliason can see some room for improvement.
"I don't think you're ever fully prepared. You can always learn more and improve yourself," said Airman Eliason.

The ORE not only provided valuable practice, but promoted unit cohesion as well.
"Even though it's just an exercise, it draws us closer. Working such long hours, we really get to know each other," said Senior Airman Willie Daniels, with the 366th Logistics
Readiness Squadron.

Being the first ORE for many Airmen, this particular exercise proved to be invaluable training.

"I think we learned a lot. We have a lot of people who have never been through a phase II exercise before, so I think it was eye opening to a lot of people to see how difficult it is to proficiently operate in that environment," said Col. Buckley.

Master Sgt. David Blakely, Production Superintendent with the 391st Aircraft Maintenance Unit agrees that the ORE was beneficial to all Airmen involved.

"The exercise was an excellent learning opportunity for everyone," said sergeant Blakely.

The participants were able to efficiently execute all appropriate duties with positive attitudes.

"I saw great attitudes. I know it was extremely difficult. We do challenging things every day, and things become exponentially more difficult when you throw on MOPP gear, yet people did a great job. I think the good attitude is a testament to our NCO core," said Col. Buckley.

With the stressful conditions provided by the ORE scenarios, positive demeanors were encouraged by leadership.

"We tried to maintain good attitudes among the troops," said Master Sgt. Blakely.

As a result of the recent ORE, Airmen can expect to build on newly practiced skills.

"We're not doing this to harass people. We're doing this because it's about generating combat air power in any environment; and when people understand that, it can be a rewarding experience to know that it's a very difficult thing, yet we can accomplish it," said Col. Buckley. "We recognize the hard work and dedication that went along with this difficult challenge. We emphasize that we learned a lot and have a lot to learn, but we'll get there."

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