148th Fighter Wing completes a Phase II Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE)

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sarah Hayes
  • 148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DULUTH, Minn. --  The 148th Fighter Wing completed the Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE) Coronet Lightning, Saturday, June 11, 2011. This exercise began Friday, June 10, 2011 and was designed to refamiliarize Airmen with Force Protection Conditions (FPCON), Mission Oriented Protection Postures (MOPP) and for members to perform the mission while wearing the Chemical Protective Overgarment (CPO).

Colonel Frank Stokes, Commander of the 148th Fighter Wing, noted, "Coronet Lightning is our first Phase II Operational Readiness Exercise since our conversion to the Block 50 F-16 Fighting Falcon" and "With our mission comes a slightly different phase II scenario."

Another goal of this exercise was to train new unit members on the successful completion of exercises and inspections in the future. More seasoned Airmen were able to advise new members on the correct procedures involved with this type of exercise.

Col. Stokes expressed, "It's important to take the time to reflect on our role in this exercise and make improvements where required. While many Airmen have participated in many Operational Readiness Exercises and Inspections, we should strive to educate our newest members who have not as they are vital for future success."

Senior Master Sgt. Kelvin McCuskey, Wing Installation Emergency Manager, planned and coordinated the exercise.

Sgt. McCuskey stated, "I think a lot of great training took place and I was truly impressed with the great attitudes people had and the willingness to participate in this exercise. Overall, the two day exercise was successful in accomplishing our wing goals that were set to be achieved."