FTX tests CES deployment skills

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Airmen from the 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron here recently participated in a field training exercise in preparation for future deployments.

The week-long event covered training in deployed operations such as air base defense, night operations, field hygiene and land navigation.

"Since the Air Force has increased its taskings with Army units, we must train Airmen how to interact and work in that environment," said Master Sgt. Darren Stanley, 23rd CES NCO in-charge of power production. "It is also a great supplement to the Air Force's Combat Skills Training course and since the exercise is done at home station, it costs less."

CES holds the exercises before each Air Expeditionary Force rotation, and they cover many required Air Force operational objectives.

The individuals who participated were chosen because they were overdue for training, new to the squadron or scheduled to deploy in an upcoming deployment rotation.

Because the 820th Security Forces Group specializes in training for deployed environments, they offered their expertise to the FTX participants.

"The 820th has provided top-notch training in several areas such as defensive fighting positions and the Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer (HEAT)," said Master Sgt. Stuart Fowler, NCO in-charge of the FTX. "I've been taking advantage of the different exercises and listening to the information presented so that I could relay it to my Airmen."

During the first day, participants were divided into two teams and learned how to set up a shelter system and operate generators and air conditioning units.

"Setting up the tents was a bit challenging," said Airman 1st Class Edwin Ketcham, who was a first-timer at the FTX. "I didn't really know what to do because I was never put in that kind of situation before."

As the days progressed, participants learned how to conduct practical convoy operations, self-aid buddy care, detect improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and conduct proper radio communications.

"Throughout the exercise, I made sure that my team was getting the most out of the hands-on training and I tried to answer any questions they had," said 2nd Lt. Aubrea Boyd, who was a team leader. "The FTX allowed those Airmen who haven't been deployed, including me, to be exposed to these real-world conditions."

For breakfast and lunch Airmen were given meals ready-to-eat and they slept in cots, much like living in a deployed environment.

Each day ended with a hot shower at the Freedom I Fitness Center and a hot meal at the Georgia Pines Dining Facility. 

Overall, the exercise served as good preparation for the different scenarios the Airmen may experience at their deployed locations, said Airman Ketcham. 

"This exercise was a great experience because I got to work with unfamiliar situations," he said. "I hope to utilize the skills I learned during my first deployment."