Operational Readiness Exercise begins Saturday

27th SOW Public Affairs Office

The 27th Special Operations Wing is scheduled to have an Operational Readiness Exercise from Saturday through Thursday.

This particular readiness exercise is part of a year-long effort to prepare for the wing’s first Operational Readiness Inspection scheduled for mid-November. While passing an inspection is a definite plus, the purpose of military exercises and inspections overall are to ensure personnel are able to execute the missions they are tasked with.

“In order to prepare we have to practice the deployment process and practice bedding down at a simulated deployed location,” said Lt. Col. Mark Brown, 27th Special Operations Wing Inspector General.

Brown said that the base will simulate that they are in a hostile environment so people may hear sirens and simulated explosions throughout the exercise window. People may also notice increased activity on base as the exercise scenario unfolds.

“A part of the vital training our personnel receive is based on creating the effect of a threat environment,” said Brown.

Anyone living on base or visiting should note traffic delays, closures or limited services at base facilities may occur.

Military members should ensure that their families are told what to expect pertaining to the exercise so loud noises and traffic delays are not a surprise and families can plan ahead.

If you have any questions, contact the 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs office at 575-784-4131.