SFS feels 'simulated' by training

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Abigail Klein
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Diligently treading over the Kansas prairie while decked out in battle gear, their figures obscured only by the awkward sway of sunflowers and a few sparse, makeshift metal buildings, more than 30 members from the 931st Security Forces Squadron were ready to train, not exercise.

That's because the two-day scenario conducted Sept. 7-8, at Smoky Hill Training Site was part of an annual Air Force requirement, and is meant to realistically simulate actual combat conditions these Airmen may encounter while deployed, said Master Sgt. Scott Flaherty, 931st SFS Action officer.

"While the training is also meant to ensure [Reservists] are familiar with their firearms, the scenarios also allow for the realism of actual combat movements," he said.  "This includes [the Airmen] maneuvering from point to point while 'under fire' until they reach their goal destination," he said.

In addition to traditional combat maneuvers, the Airmen learned to work as a team, mastering the group maneuvers, hand signals and facility clearing procedures utilized not only by the Department of Defense, but also the Department of Homeland Security.

"The teamwork aspect is important," said Flaherty.  "For many of them, this was their first time working together out in the field as a team, and we wanted to make it as realistic as possible."

To add to the realism of the overall training, the opposing force team utilized training marking bullets and cartridges Flaherty says the feeling of being hit by one is slightly more powerful than a paint ball gun. The effect of 'being hit' by one of these dummy bullets is mean to be more jarring than the Air Force's past use of the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System, which relied upon the visual effect of lasers.

The sting of the "bullets" was intercepted by the knee of Senior Airman Long Nguyen, 931st SFS patrolman, who immediately after being hit, utilized his combat lifesaving skills and applied a tourniquet to his leg.  For him, the scope and breadth of Smoky Hill is what added to the training.

"[The scenario] was a much wider and broader area to be aware of, you really have to work with your team," he said. 

Despite the rigorous training, Nguyen and his fellow Airmen really enjoyed their time at the range.

"Any time we can get out there and refresh our training, it's a good time," he said.  "This is as real as it gets."

Since its activation October of 2011, the 931st SFS has grown to 52 members and continues to be involved in a number of operations around the globe.