28th Medical Group balances training, real-world operations Published Nov. 4, 2013 By Senior Airman Anania Tekurio 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- On the third Wednesday of each month, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., the 28th Medical Group turns their focus to training personnel to better serve Airmen, family members and civilians. During those hours, Airmen of the 28th MDG focus on enhancing readiness capabilities and ensuring proficiency on several other key tasks including the Medical Contingency Response Plan and Readiness Skills Verification Program. "We organize teams based on Air Force specialty codes, skill level and experience" said Tech. Sgt. Kevin Davis, 28th Medical Support Squadron medical readiness NCO in charge. "Not only do we have many tasks that need to be completed before personnel can deploy, but we have other requirements that need to be met in order for us to maintain readiness for our mission." Davis explained that the training is tailored to each medical career field and effectively helps Airmen respond and operate during emergency situations. "Our annexes tell us how we are supposed to operate during any given emergency situation," said Lonnie Holt, 28th MDSS medical readiness technician. "There could be a mass casualty exercise that we have to respond to this month. Then, next month, it could be tornado exercise - whatever it may be, we have to make sure we are ready for it." He added that everyone appreciates the understanding and patience of their customers during the training sessions, emphasizing it is a vital way to ensure all MDG are able to provide the best care possible. Holt said it can be challenging at times to take care of patients while simultaneously keeping up with unit training. "It's a balancing act," said Holt. "It's our way of devoting some time to meet training requirements, but at the same time, ensuring we provide quality care to our patients. At the end of the day, that time helps us better serve our patients."