23rd FG exercise prepares troops for deployment
By Airman Cassandra J. Locke
43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. (AMCNS) -- In preparation for possible upcoming deployments, the 23rd Fighter Group conducted a Phase II exercise Jan. 14 to 17.
"Our exercises help build confidence in our actions and familiarity with our equipment," said Maj. Joseph Yankovich, 23rd Maintenance Squadron commander.
The fighter group practiced putting their nuclear, biological and chemical warfare gear on in a timely manner while conducting their jobs in different alarm conditions and mission-oriented protective posture levels.
"Exercising helps ferret out equipment problems and gear needed," said Master Sgt. Thomas Clemens, 23rd MXS first sergeant.
Each unit command center was responsible for providing their current status to the group command center, and they determined when the units changed the alarm condition and MOPP level.
"That's why communication is crucial during an exercise," said the commander. "Everyone needs to be able to respond to the proper alarm conditions."
Clemens said they had their gas masks on for hours at a time. "You get used to the heat," Clemens added.
"It gets hot wearing the gear and makes the job more difficult to do, but it has to get done," said Staff Sgt. Carl Yeoman, 23rd MXS.
During this exercise, the troops simulated what to expect in Southwest Asia. They practiced responding to what is a potential threat in that area. In this case, the troops acted as if there were scud missiles, chemical munitions and terrorist activity.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
