Kentucky contingency response Airmen train with Puerto Rico security forces to enhance multi-capable mindset

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joshua Horton
  • 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LOUISVILLE, Ky. --  Security forces Airmen from the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Contingency Response Group completed air base ground defense training with Airmen from the Puerto Rico Air National Guard’s 156th Security Operations Squadron Sept. 16-23.

The training, held at Muñiz Air National Guard Base in Carolina, Puerto Rico, reinforced defensive skills employed during contingency-response operations in contested environments by allowing Airmen to practice radio communications, warning and operation orders, vehicle searches, vehicle take downs, close-quarter battle, and small-team tactics that integrated the operational capabilities and knowledge of both units.

In addition to streamlining training requirements, the exercise enhanced interoperability between the Airmen from Kentucky and Puerto Rico, said Tech. Sgt. Remy Hammock, a security forces squad leader for the 123rd CRG.

“This was an opportunity that we may not get over drill weekend that allows us to accomplish so many objectives in a short time,” Hammock said. “It also allows us to speak the same language when It comes to tactics, which makes us more lethal going out the door because everyone is on the same page.”

According to Master Sgt. Josh McConnell, a security forces squad leader and flight chief for the 123rd CRG, the training puts the idea of multi-capable Airmen into practice.

“It’s about putting Airmen in the mindset that they have to be adaptable,” McConnell said. “Throughout the year, we’ll do additional trainings on land navigation, shooting, small-unit tactics, communications classes, tactical combat casualty care and other subjects because we don’t always have specialized personnel — we’re trained on multiple skills to fill those voids.

“This makes sure we understand the things that we are going to be responsible for in those avenues.”