2012 CORT Training-Davis Monthan AFB

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Louis Vega Jr.
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Warrior Airmen of the 944th Fighter Wing participated in a combat convoy operations training exercise at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, March 1-4. Combat Operations Readiness Training was coordinated with the 355th Fighter Wing, located near Tucson, Ariz., a year in advance to organize the event.

"We started small three years ago and after each training session we looked at what worked, what didn't work, and improved the syllabus based on lessons learned," said Senior Master Sgt. Stephen Brook, 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron Transportation Manager.

The annual training ensures members meet training requirements and are armed with real-time knowledge of what is being done, or improved upon, out in the field. This year, the 55 personnel trained included members from the 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron, 944th Security Forces Squadron, and vehicle operators from the 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron.

CORT training included vehicle camouflage and dispersal, reaction to attacks, radio communications, convoy procedures, operations during blackout conditions, land navigation, and a combat convoy operations exercise. During the exercise, 944th SFS members ambushed LRS personnel from along a desert road. LRS personnel defended themselves and equipment, with M-4 paintball guns. This training familiarized vehicle operators with combat convoy operations while living in a bare base environment.

According to Active Duty partners who assisted with the event, the training was a great success.

"Scenarios were well planned and the environment was perfect," said Tech. Sgt. Anthony Dudley, Training Validation and Operations NCO, 56th LRS. "The training location was great and provided realistic field living conditions for personnel. Involvement and interaction between participants were continuous, all of which made CORT 2012 a success."

Questions and concerns were readily addressed and according to leadership, the training was important for Airmen from multiple career fields to improve a vital skill set.

"This was our third year of Combat Convoy Operations Training," said Lt. Colonel Mike A. Boutet, commander, 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron Commander. "We focused on expanding the training to include other Air Force Specialty Codes within LRS to give them an opportunity to experience combat training. Fortunately, we have an internal cadre of very skilled instructors with combat experience. I think everyone received a better perspective on the requirements to successfully conduct these operations."

Next year's event is scheduled to take place at approximately the same time of year according to Sergeant Brook who is hoping to yet again improve the experience.

"We're hoping to expand next year and make it even better with tactical vehicles and improved classroom training. We also plan to improve communications equipment and the M-4 paintball exercise," said Brook. "I completely agree, the training was a success! I'm excited about the possibilities to build this program into something better each year with this dedicated total force team there's no doubt we will continue to have great success growing our combat ready Citizen Airmen."