PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The Reserve Citizen Airmen of the 302nd Airlift Wing gathered before sunrise Saturday and traveled to Fort Carson to conduct a training exercise.
The exercise allowed different functions from across the wing to sharpen skills in mobilization of personnel, emergency response, medical triage and evacuation, base security, and force support.
Col. James DeVere, the 302nd AW commander, said the purpose of the exercise was to practice operating in a multi-domain command and control environment.
“We do this to be mission-ready Airmen,” he said while addressing the participants before the exercise kicked off.
During the first portion of the day, reservists completed career field-specific training, which included the 302nd Aeromedical Staging Squadron practicing patient care and movement.
Col. Leon Barringer, the 302nd ASTS commander, said the 302nd ASTS being able to practice with their equipment ensures they are equipped and ready for future deployments.
“We have a ‘why we do what we do,’ and our ‘why’ is to bring Joe home,” Barringer said. “We need to practice that.”
After career field-specific training the 302nd Force Support Squadron practiced feeding troops in the field by preparing and serving hot lunch from a temper tent.
Scenarios started with an explosion the 302nd Security Forces Squadron coordinated using a ground burst simulator, members from across the wing came together to practice emergency response and recovery efforts.
“It’s great to get out of the office and train like we fight,” Chief Master Sgt. Kahn Scalise, 302nd AW command chief said. “Participating out in field conditions is valuable hands-on experience for our Airmen in the Wing.”