Osan demonstrates mission readiness during exercise

by Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Staff Sgt. Jimmy Mills, 25th Aircraft Maintenance Unit weapons load crew member, attaches a GBU-38 to an A-10 Thunderbolt II during an exercise at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea Jan. 30. Beverly Bulldog 12-01 is the first week-long simulated wartime contingency exercise designed to test the base’s response during a wartime contingency. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stefanie Torres) Hi-res

1/30/2012 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Team Osan reported for duty Jan. 29 in response to a base-wide recall for operational readiness exercise Beverly Bulldog 12-01.

Beverly Bulldog 12-01 is the first week-long simulated wartime contingency exercise executed in the Republic of Korea for 2012.

Airmen are evaluated every quarter on their skills to survive and operate in a wartime environment, as well as defend the base, execute combat operations and receive follow-on forces.

"We exercise because of the location we are in," said Capt. Rommel Villanueva, 51st Fighter Wing plans and programs. "We need to be ready to defend Osan and the Republic of Korea; it's why we are here."

The base exercises regularly due to the high-threat area and large personnel turn over each year, he said.

During the week, Airmen will showcase their ability to position, employ and sustain forces during a variety of simulated attacks and situations. Participants will also demonstrate the ability to administer self-aid and buddy-care and operate in a chemical environment.

Another challenge during the exercise is the environmental elements participants must endure throughout the week, such as extreme cold and precipitation.

The 51st FW Safety office advises members to keep exposed skin to a minimum during cold weather and remember to hydrate.

"Every day, Team Osan proves they are capable of successfully executing the mission," said Col. Mark DeLong, 51st Fighter Wing vice commander. "This week will show that we have trained to defend, execute and receive and will highlight that we are ready to fight and win tonight."

In the spring, Osan Air Base will participate in a Consolidated Unit Inspection, which will evaluate the programs and mission readiness of the base.

Source