Combat style training

CAMP NAVAJO, Ariz. -- Speaking in hushed tones and through hand signals, the 944th Fighter Wing Security Forces fire team stepped out on combat patrol as a cohesive team.

Thus began the September unit training assembly with a three day training exercise in the cool pine forest of Camp Navajo, Arizona Army National Guard facility in Bellemont, Arizona, a short two hour drive from the base.

Thirty-one members of the 944 SFS were given the opportunity to sharpen their combat skills during the UTA. The three day event included camp set up, battle drills station training, movement techniques, react to contact, ambush demonstrations, ambush application, team building and more.

“The outstanding working relationship we have with the Arizona Army National Guard here at Camp Navajo, combined with close location to Luke and the cooler weather made this training invaluable for our team,” said Master Sgt. Christopher Buscaglio, 944 SFS, Senior Security Forces manager.

“Getting out of the heat of the valley and into the cooler weather of Northern Arizona provided the perfect setting for this type of training. Open space along with the natural coverage of the pine trees was just what was needed.”

Members of the 944th Support Squadron Service Flight and Aeromedical Staging Squadron provided real world support to ensure a successful training event.

“The training is going well, we have a lot of new individuals in the squadron and this is giving them a good education on map reading, combat formation, and reaction to ambushes. I have been with the unit for 15 years and am getting ready to retire, it is time to hand it over to someone else,” said Tech. Sgt. Daniel Watzek, 944 SFS, fire team member.

“Time and time again our 944 SFS Airmen prove themselves to be proficient in what they do,” said Col. Paul Theisen, 944th Mission Support Group commander. “Capt. Joel Brown, 944th SFS operations officer, did a great job setting up the training. It was instrumental in honing combat skills needed in the field, boosting morale, and provided our Airmen the confidence needed when called upon.”