Training key to missileer readiness

by Tech. Sgt. Steve Grever
Air Force Public Affairs Agency

2/7/2014 - MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Pulling 24-hour alerts across the 341st Missile Wing's 13,800-square mile missile complex is an around-the-clock responsibility for the missileers here who support the Air Force's nuclear deterrence and assurance mission at the wing's 15 launch control centers and missile alert facilities.

If the missileers are not in the missile field, they're back at home station training.

Lt. Col. Kyle Cone, 12th Missile Squadron director of operations, said the training requirements are extensive, but necessary to ensure each missileer can perform their required tasks while on alert.

"The training helps ensure they know how to do their procedures," Cone said. "Additionally, it provides them some scenarios that they might not see day to day."

1st Lt. Tracie Davis, a 10th Missile Squadron missile combat crew commander, said training helps her perform her missile operator duties in the field because it keeps the information fresh in her mind so she can respond quickly to new scenarios.

"You're more prepared because you've seen it regularly in training, which definitely helps," Davis said.

Col. Robert Stanley, 341st MW commander, said he is proud of the work his missileers do on a daily basis to accomplish the wing's deterrence and assurance mission.

"Our organization prides itself on Airmen who are selfless," Stanley said. "These Airmen are out in temperatures that are often times below zero for days on end with blizzard-like conditions. We need people of the highest caliber who can be motivated internally, who don't need applause and don't need the light on them. They just need the satisfaction in knowing that what they do gives the President leverage in every world arena."