ORE fast approaching

  • Published
  • By 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  As the base leans forward in preparation of the upcoming operational readiness exercise July 9-12, officials are urging everyone to take time to ensure they are ready for the activities that week.
 
While the base has conducted several Phase I exercises to test its ability to process personnel and cargo, the upcoming ORE will be the first exercise incorporating new Air Combat Command Inspector General direction for combined Phase I and Phase II inspections. In addition, it will also be the first time since October 2010 that Ellsworth has conducted a Phase II ORE.

While the intent of the Phase II - to evaluate the wing's ability to meet wartime and contingency tasks of employing forces, sustaining forces and maintaining the ability to survive and operate in a deployed location - remains the same, many of the faces, places and processes have changed.

For example, Airmen will process the mobility line in the Deployment Center as part of the Phase I. During the Phase II, players will enter and exit the play area in the Pride Hangar, then report to their work areas. As for the "arena" for the games, base Airmen will be operating out of Camp Lancer and several other areas around the base.

"One key element to this exercise is that we will be utilizing many of the same facilities used in our day-to-day operations, such as the Command Post," said Lt. Col. Barry Hutchison, 28th Bomb Wing Plans and Programs chief. "Most players won't be able to drive to and from their work sections. The exercise area has one main exercise entry point in the Pride Hangar along with two additional EEPs at satellite locations. Everyone should plan to utilize the exercise shuttle bus as much as possible."

A shuttle bus will be used to transport players to several locations across the base. The exercise shuttle bus schedule and route will be available on the base's official website once it is finalized.

Hutchison said Airmen can take several steps now to make the exercise more bearable.

"Familiarize yourself with the Airman's Manual (Air Force Pamphlet 10-100) and pay particular attention to self aid and buddy care, MOPP (mission oriented protective posture) levels and identifying UXOs (unexploded ordnance)," he said, adding that simulated attacks, injured Airmen and UXOs will be part of numerous scenarios.

Hutchison was quick to note that the primary focus of the July exercise will not be on evaluation, but rather on education, exposure and experience. The Air Force IG has directed implementation of the Commander's Inspection Program through the new AFI 90-201, and this exercise will be the wing's first under the new construct.

"Ultimately, our goal is to ensure the base is inspecting itself in accordance with the wing commander's direction consistent with Air Staff and ACC guidance," Hutchison noted. "That's why it's important we practice like we play and take advantage of everything we do during the ORE."

During the exercise, base and area residents may hear announcements over the "giant voice," sirens, explosions and gunfire to simulate enemy fire and operations in a deployed environment.

Entering and exiting the base should not be an issue during the exercise, but everyone is encouraged to call in advance to ensure appointments and services are not impacted.

For more information, contact the 28th BW Public Affairs at (605) 385-5056, or via email the office at 28.bw.pa@ellsworth.af.mil.