Exercise tests new deployment center, Airman readiness

  • Published
  • By Airman Ashley J. Cass
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Bomb Wing conducted an operational readiness exercise June 13 here to test the processes and systems of the new deployment center.

Exercises are conducted every month, but Rick Schroeder, the 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron installation deployment officer, said this particular exercise was particularly significant.

"We used parts of the new deployment center in a previous Green Flag exercise, but this was the first time that we were able to use the whole thing," Schroeder said.

Three different groups of approximately 80 Airmen went through the pre-deployment process, which included locale and benefit briefings in a state-of-the-art briefing room. Briefs from numerous agencies were incorporated into a variety of media, and presented on two projection screens and built-in ceiling speakers throughout the room.

The next stop was the personnel deployment function line, where the exercise participants updated and verified information in various deployment documents, ranging from powers of attorney to wills.

Airmen who played a role in the deployment operations were on hand to x-ray luggage and inspect it for contraband, while others played the role of airport clerks and manifested deployers onto their mock flight.

After processing, Airmen waiting for their flight had the opportunity to relax in the waiting room.

Senior Airman Jazmin Smith, a 28th Services Squadron lodging technician, helped provide building security for the exercise. One of her tasks was to monitor the waiting room.

"I make sure no one is doing anything illegal, or anything that will cause harm to themselves or others," Smith said. "I'm also here if any of the Airmen need anything, and to make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible."

Airman 1st Class Kyle Risse, a 28th Munitions Squadron munitions handling crew member, said this was his first ORE and that the new center offers a great deal more for deployers.

"I've deployed before," Risse said. "The deployment center is a lot better than the Pride Hangar."

Schroeder said this ORE was also a chance to identify any problems or bottlenecks in the PDF line. "This is the first time that we've had such a large mass of people go through the line," Schroeder said. "Everything went smoothly."