ORE wrap up, lessons learned

  • Published
  • By Airman Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen from Ellsworth engaged in an recent Operational Readiness Exercise Feb. 22 to 24 designed to test the base's ability to mobilize, process personnel and equipment, and deploy in response to a worldwide tasking.

"Our Airmen consistently train to maintain a high state of readiness, and we are proud of our ability to answer the call for missions that could occur anytime, anywhere," said Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "It's not easy, and it takes a tremendous amount of work, but our terrific Airmen never fail to rise to the occasion."

The ORE covered a variety of B-1B operations, including aircraft maintenance and support functions. Ellsworth aircrews conducted B-1B missions designed to test their ability to rapidly deliver massive quantities of precision and non-precision air strikes against enemy forces anywhere in the world.

Airmen in a variety of non-aviation roles conducted active, hands-on training spanning a myriad of tasks ensure the success of B-1B missions.

Lt. Col. William Dobbs, 28th Bomb Wing plans and programs chief said there were some great lessons learned during the exercise that will help in future OREs and the Operational Readiness Inspection in April.

"Attitude is extremely important," said Dobbs. "If you see a problem, take the initiative to find the solution."

Dobbs added that it's vital that everyone understand that all of Ellsworth is in play during the ORE, and that Operations Security and Force Protection Conditions should be taking very seriously all of the time.

"OPSEC is everyone's responsibility," said Dobbs. "Airmen need to make sure they safeguard personal and work related information."

The next base OREs are slated for March 14 to 16, and March 28 to 30.