Wolf Pack kicks off first exercise of 2013

by Senior Airman Brigitte N. Brantley
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/14/2013 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  -- The Wolf Pack kicked off Beverly Midnight 13-1 here Jan. 13 in preparation for the upcoming Combined Unit Inspection in April.

As the first exercise of 2013, it will set the pace for how both Kunsan and Osan Air Base will conduct exercises in preparation for visits from the Pacific Air Forces' Inspector General team in just a couple months.

At Kunsan, the emphasis is on ensuring the Airmen and F-16 Fighting Falcons of the 8th Fighter Wing are ready to "Defend the Base, Accept Follow-On Forces and Take the Fight North."

"Our fighter wing with two F-16 squadrons and a myriad of base support agencies conducts a full spectrum of missions providing for the defense of the Republic of Korea," said Col. John W. Pearse, 8th FW commander. "We are prepared for any contingency, and we have all trained diligently for this moment."

Bases here on the Korean peninsula are unique in the way they exercise - Kunsan and Osan both practice to the fullest of their capabilities, simulating practically nothing. This provides the best possible training environment for Airmen. Much of the training focuses on preparing for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) training.

Airmen conduct 24-hour operations for nearly a week as they train for any possible scenario. Typical exercise injects include everything from self-aid and buddy care situations to decontaminating personnel. It takes a coordinated effort between every unit on base to make sure the mission happens.

Aircraft generation is one of the most important parts of the exercise, and each unit plays a role in making sure that happens. Medical personnel are on standby ready to take care of any injuries or emergencies. The 8th Civil Engineer Squadron oversees contamination control and shelter management among other things.

At the front line, though, are the maintainers on the flightline.

"During both real-world and exercise operations, our maintainers are constantly working to make sure our F-16s are combat-ready," said Lt. Col. Michael Miles, 8th Maintenance Group deputy commander. "We practice like we fight so that when we 'Take the Fight North,' there will be no disruption in how we conduct our wartime mission. Aircraft maintainers make that mission possible."

In the end, it's about getting the mission done while making clear the Air Force's intentions.

"Wolf Pack Airmen are here at the request of the Republic of Korea government. Our role is essential to ensuring peace and stability in the region," said Pearse. "Together, with our joint U.S. partners and the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, we will ensure a robust defense of the Republic of Korea."