ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The 139th Airlift Wing conducted a large-scale readiness exercise June 8-11 at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base.
Fourteen Inspectors from Air Mobility Command’s Inspector General office evaluated the exercise, focusing on the 139th Wing Inspection Team’s ability to conduct internal evaluations accurately. The purpose of the LRE is to ensure the 139th IG can provide an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the wing’s readiness to the wing commander.
“Overall, the exercise was a success as our members successfully demonstrated their ability to generate, employ and sustain in support of a wartime effort,” said Maj. Rob Payeur, inspector general of the 139th Airlift Wing.
A total of 185 scenarios were enacted during the four-day exercise, including the simulated deployment of 137 Airmen.
During the exercise, Airmen demonstrated their knowledge of gear that protects against chemical, biological and radiological attacks.
They focused on achieving proper seals on their masks, securing their pockets, ensuring hook and pile fasteners were in place, and preventing exposure of their duty uniforms or skin, said Master Sgt. Brice Martin, 139th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management.
Airmen also conducted pre- and post-attack reconnaissance (PAR).
Martin said the exercise emphasized the importance of Guard members protecting themselves while ensuring the prompt deployment of aircraft, all with the ultimate goal of returning safely.
The exercise also incorporated joint training, with some aspects of the event taking place away from Rosecrans.
“Traditionally LREs are a wing-level evaluation. However, at the 139th, we understand that now, not in war, is the time to build relationships and capabilities with our joint partners,” said Payeur. “With that in mind, the 139th coordinated with Army units from here in Missouri and Nebraska to evaluate extremely relevant joint capabilities that will be essential in future conflict.”
Three members from the 139th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s petroleum, oils and lubricants office traveled to Springfield to conduct a special fueling operation. They extracted fuel from a C-130 into an R-11 refueling truck and transferred it to a Missouri Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. This wet-wing defueling involves transferring fuel while the aircraft engines are operational.
Airmen also found themselves in Lincoln, Nebraska, during the LRE. Aircrews from the 139th Operations Group conducted a Joint Airborne Air Transportability Training event, in which approximately 70 Nebraska Army National Guard Soldiers airdropped from a C-130 Hercules aircraft.