CAMP RIPLEY, Minn. -- Three-dozen Security Forces specialists from the 148th Fighter Wing recently completed a 10-day field training txercise at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota. “Exercises like this prepare airmen for any mission around the world,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jozef Miketin, 148th Fighter Wing Security Forces Chief Enlisted Manager.
The training included weapons qualifications on five different firearms to include the M-4, M-9, M-203, M-240 and M-249. Airmen practiced Humvee basic driving skills and mounted land navigation tactics. They learned techniques used in military operations in urban terrain and close quarters battle. Camp Ripley, located near Little Falls, Minnesota is a 53,000-acre training center with numerous small arms ranges and specialized facilities that support military and civilian agencies. “We’re using Camp Ripley and all it has to offer to ensure we’re capable of doing whatever tasks the Air Force needs us to do,” said Miketin.
As the largest career field in the U.S. Air Force, the job of Security Forces is to ensure the safety of the people, property and resources on Air Force bases. They are responsible for defending air bases around the globe, law enforcement on military bases and combat arms. “Each of these exercises provides airmen realistic scenarios to practice the tactics and techniques they learned this week and throughout their Air National Guard careers,” said Miketin
Attendees ranged in experience levels and duration of service. Maj. John Christenson, a Service Capability Leader with Cummins, Inc also serves as the 148th Security Forces Commander, has 19-years of service in the active duty and Air National Guard while Airman 1st Class Lindsey Shykes returned from the U.S. Air Force Security Forces apprentice course in February. Shykes said she particularly “enjoyed learning and practicing basic Humvee driving skills and using the knowledge she learned at tech school,” while at Camp Ripley.
The intense week ended in an all-encompassing field training exercise (FTX) which started with Security Forces and Logistics Readiness personnel convoying to a forward operating base. Upon arrival of their simulated deployed location, airmen were faced with rocket fire, protests, riots, and combat in an urban environment. “We culminate our training with an FTX, allowing Airmen to showcase the skills gained over the 10-days of training,” said Christenson. He added, “they came motivated and worked 12+ hours every day.”