YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio --
People who constantly think of worst-case scenarios may typically be considered pessimists. The Air Force on the other hand, sees their value as members of the Emergency Management (EM) team.
“Being in emergency management, I help create contingency plans for natural disasters and manmade disasters, whether that be chemical, biological or some other harmful attack while on deployment,” said Chief Master Sgt. David Olekshuk, Chief of the 910th EM Flight.
On March 4, 2017, the EM team held a tabletop exercise which included officers and enlisted service members from all over YARS to discuss how each department would handle the given scenario.
“This is wartime planning, so when we deploy we’ll know what to do if something happens,” said Master Sgt. Chuck Sexton, Superintendent of the 910th EM Flight. “Giving this experience to reservists to be ready for deployment is invaluable. The more time they spend here gaining knowledge, the more ready they are for deployed and domestic situations.”
The tabletop exercise held in the YARS Emergency Operations Center, was a two-hour situation-room type of atmosphere that included leaders from several key departments around base. They were given an overseas scenario and had to collaborate effectively to assure personnel safety and mission success.
“Overseeing exercises like these, I see comradery being built between the base leaders,” said Olekshuk. “They are getting in the mindset of being one unit and working together to keep everyone on base safe and still functioning to continue the mission. We’re accountable for everyone on base. The safety of our personnel, civilians and guests is our highest priority.”
Lou Cox, Installation Emergency Manager of the 910th EM Flight, said that this was a great training environment which allowed them to keep their reservists deployment ready.
Cox also stated that the quarterly exercises will be a continuation from one another and will gradually get more severe.
The EOC team will host the second part of this scenario at the wing’s next scheduled Unit Training Assembly weekend.