Augmentee training fortifies, supports Eielson mission

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Yash Rojas
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Each month, various squadrons provide willing Airmen who must undergo augmentee training provided by the 354th Security Forces Squadron, all in an effort to help support ongoing mission objectives at Eielson Air Force Base.

During training, individuals learn proper techniques and procedures to become professionals in a new capacity. This training equips non-defenders with the necessary skills to function much like their 354th SFS counterparts.

In order to help support the 354th SFS, Each of them are handpicked and selected to attend augmentee training to enhance their skills. Many may need only a refresher, while others may not have operated weapons since Air Force basic training.

"Augmentees come from various career fields, and we take a group of Airmen and train them to basically perform as a security forces member," said Staff Sgt. Jennifer Carr, 354th SFS training instructor. "Most augmentees are eager and excited to get to be a part of the program so they meet the training head-on and with vigor."

All future augmentees receive the same training and complete a variety of different skills challenges in which they must overcome obstacles in order to serve as skilled and proficient Airmen warriors.

"[Icemen] are trained on security forces job knowledge to include handcuffing and searching procedures, SF vehicle and personnel challenges, communications procedures, SF response and tactics and installation entry control," said Carr. "They also qualify on the M4 carbine."

In addition to the initial month of training, Icemen must also update their training annually to maintain competency.

"Training was very effective and helps make skills second nature," said Airman 1st Class Michael Standridge, 354th Comptroller Squadron customer service technician. "I feel I am ready to help and believe newly trained augmentees will especially help during operational readiness exercises, supporting manning."

Participating in the virtual shooting gallery helped him with familiarizing himself with his weapon and feeling comfortable handling a weapon in a real-world scenario, said Standridge.

Defenders continue to offer their expertise and knowledge in order to maintain their highest level of base security, which ensures all Airmen are able to focus on their mission with little worry.

For more information, contact Eagle Eyes at 377-5130.