ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- The 139th Airlift Wing conducted a large-scale readiness exercise, or LRE, on June 8-11, 2023 at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base.
Fourteen Inspectors from Air Mobility Command’s Inspector General office evaluated the exercise, focusing on the 139th Wing Inspection Team's ability to conduct internal evaluations accurately. The purpose of the LRE is to ensure the 139th IG can provide an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the wing's readiness to the wing commander.
“Overall, the exercise was a success as our members successfully demonstrated their ability to generate, employ and sustain in support of a wartime effort,” said Maj. Rob Payeur, inspector general of the 139th Airlift Wing.
A total of 185 scenarios were enacted during the 4-day exercise including simulating the deployment of 137 Airmen. Despite being a simulated deployment, inspectors observed the real-life dynamics of the deployment process, including the Personnel Deployment Function and Airmen boarding C-130 Hercules aircraft and experiencing the flight firsthand.
During the exercise, Airmen demonstrated their knowledge of MOPP, or Mission-Oriented Protective Posture, the gear that protects against chemical, biological and radiological attacks.
They focused on achieving proper seals on their masks, securing their pockets, ensuring hook and pile fasteners were in place, and preventing exposure of their duty uniforms or skin, and conducted buddy checks to ensure their fellow Airmen were adequately prepared, said Master Sgt. Brice Martin, 139th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management.
Airmen also conducted Pre and Post Attack Reconnaissance (PAR) phases.
Prior to a simulated attack, teams conducted pre-attack checks to eliminate any existing damage or debris, while setting up Liquid Detection Points. After the attack, PAR teams assessed their areas for any unexploded ordinances, casualties, chemical contamination, or building damage and promptly reported their findings to the Unit Control Centers.
The exercise emphasized the importance of protecting themselves while ensuring the prompt deployment of aircraft, all with the ultimate goal of returning safely to their loved ones, according to Martin.
The exercise was also an opportunity to incorporate joint training where some aspects of the event took place away from Rosecrans.
“Traditionally LREs are a wing level evaluation, however at the 139th we understand that now, not in war, is the time to build relationships and capabilities with our joint partners,” said Payeur. “With that in mind the 139th coordinated with Army units from here in Missouri and Nebraska to evaluate extremely relevant joint capabilities that will be essential in future conflict.”
Three members from the 139th Logistics Readiness Squadron's petroleum, oils, and lubricants office traveled to Springfield to conduct a special fueling operation. While there, they extracted fuel from a
C-130 into an R-11 refueling truck and subsequently transferred it to a Missouri Army National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter. This procedure is referred to as wet-wing defueling, as it involves transferring fuel while the aircraft engines are operational.
Airmen also found themselves in Lincoln, Nebraska, during the LRE.
Aircrews from the 139th Operations Group conducted a Joint Airborne Air Transportability Training event, in which approximately 70 soldiers from the Nebraska Army National Guard were airdropped from a
C-130 Hercules aircraft.
The exercise highlighted the 139th’s commitment to maintaining readiness and enhancing the skills of its Airmen. Through rigorous training and evaluation, the wing remains prepared to protect themselves, accomplish the mission, and ensure the safety and security of the nation.