403rd Wing reservists depart for deployment training

by Maj. Marnee A.C. Losurdo
403rd Wing Public Affairs

12/5/2014 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Mississippi -- About 30 reservists with the 403rd Security Forces Squadron departed for Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, today for combat and expeditionary skills training in preparation for their deployment to Southwest Asia next month.

This group is the second wave of 403rd SFS Airmen to head to Nevada for the training.

Airmen who left today are attending the Base Security Operations Course and will receive advanced weapons training, learn how to defend an air base in a combat zone or in hostile areas, and how to operate convoys, said Master Sgt. Lucas Applewhite, 403rd SFS operations superintendent.

"It's a refresher course covering all the security forces duties that will be required of the Airmen in a deployed environment," said Applewhite. Some of these duties include monitoring security checkpoints and securing the base perimeter, airfields and assets.

Staff Sgt. Aubrey Morrow was one of the security forces members who left today. It is his third deployment. He said it's a challenge to be away from friends and family during the holidays but deploying and accomplishing the mission is what he raised his hand for when he volunteered to be a reservist.

"This is why we train. Our job is to make sure all the base's assets are secure and all personnel return home safely," he said. "This is an awesome unit. All our people are real tight and we are ready to go and do our job."

Unlike Morrow, it's Senior Airman Cherelle Capobiano's first deployment.

"I'm excited, and I'm glad that I get to deploy with my unit members," she said. "It's a challenge to be away this time of year but I come from a military family so they understand."

"This is an outstanding and professional group of Airmen who are ready to complete their mission," said Col. Frank L. Amodeo, 403rd Wing commander. "We are proud of them."