NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. – More than 100 Airmen participated in a readiness exercise and training operation April 6 to demonstrate the 107th Attack Wing’s capability to generate and quickly deploy personnel and cargo under contested and limited conditions.
“This exercise is the start of a mentality change for us,” said Lt. Col. Andrew Carlson, commander of the 107th. “Down to our youngest Airman, we must remain ready and comfortable making significant decisions.”
Senior Airman Amy Phillips, a material manager for the Logistics Readiness Squadron, said that because of the U.S. role in the world, “It’s vital for us to be able to act on a moment’s notice, so this is actually a very big deal.”
The operation focused on quickly processing Airmen and their equipment to a simulated deployment area. Guard members faced different scenarios and obstacles that tested their ability to operate in unfavorable circumstances.
The operation was supported by the 105th Airlift Wing sending a C-17 Globemaster III to simulate a troop transport with a brief flyover of Niagara Falls.
“This exercise ensures that the wing is ready and able to deploy and respond to a crisis on short notice,” said Lt. Col. Andrew Carlson, the new commander of the 107th.