Security forces patrol engages simulated enemy

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The patrol formed up and moved west with information there may be an enemy encampment or weapon cache in that direction. They moved single file through the dense woods, until sudden gunfire broke out north of their position.

The 23rd Security Force Squadron rallied up and swept toward the area where the gunfire was last heard. As they approached the area, the patrol began to take AK-47 fire from atop the hill.

This patrol was in fact just a simulation created by the 23rd SFS to prepare themselves for the upcoming Phase II Operational Readiness Inspection.

"This simulation is a critical part of the Operational Readiness Inspection for us," said Capt. Justin Secrest, 23rd SFS commander. "There are a multitude of things we are graded on during this patrol."

The 12-man patrol conducted their formations and communicated through hand signals while being graded by exercise evaluation team members.

"Based on the terrain we are in we have to move in a certain formation," said Tech. Sgt. Clinton Ellis, 23rd Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge of training. "During this situation we moved single file at first because of the dense vegetation then we changed into a sweeping pattern after gunfire was heard."

Sergeant Ellis ordered the group to hit the ground and return fire after the opposing forces opened fire. After a couple minutes of returning fire the team flanked both sides of the hill and tried to cut the enemy off.

As both sides begin to make their move on the hill the opposing forces retreated but left one of their wounded soldiers behind.

They detained the prisoner and searched him, ensuring he was clear of any weapons. After being cleared he was medically evacuated from the site due to injuries he received.

On the return trip to base, the patrol discovered a small improvised explosive device hidden on the side of the road placed by the opposing forces. The explosive ordnance team was then called in to disarm it and clear the road.

After the device was cleared from the road, the 23rd SFS continued toward base and finished their patrol with great results.

"The group picked for this patrol were our best," said Captain Secrest. "We only have a few Phase II Operational Readiness Exercises left before the ORI, so we will practice this over and over till it's perfect."