News

Training brings reservists together

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Desiree Kiliz
  • 446th Airlift Wing
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  The 86th Aerial Port Squadron uses real world scenarios to gain knowledge and experience for themselves, as well as to teach others.
Each scenario given to the Reservists presents different circumstances and must be coordinated, planned and then carried out within regulations said Staff Sgt. Robin Voigt.
In addition, the 86th APS involves other flights to create a new dynamic the Airmen must tackle.
"We've had groups like the Navy come in and we tell them how to load cargo and also as a shipper what they must provide for us," said Sergeant Voigt. "This helps us because we learn how to interact with the user."
Group training also gives supervisors a chance to lead and mentor other Airmen while refreshing their practical application skills, said Senior Master Sgt. Tarri Zwolski, 86th APS.
With the 446th Airlift Control Flight, the aerial port learned how to inspect and load MARC, the portable communications shelter ALCF uses in the field.
Master Sgt. William Martin, an Air Reserve Technician in the 446th ALCF said the training benefits both units because there will be more personnel trained to handle the specialized equipment and also for the next Operational Readiness Inspection.
By using available workforce and equipment at McChord the Airmen in the 86th APS are teaching others as well as gaining experience.