Security Forces Airmen train for real-world emergencies

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Caitlin Jones
  • 355 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Members from the 355th Security Forces Squadron participated in a new facet of training, designed to let them respond quickly and appropriately to an active shooter threat, here on Feb. 9.

The training gives the Airmen a realistic scenario and let them use different hands-on techniques that they've learned in classroom instruction.

"You can sit in a classroom all day long," said Staff Sgt. David Beasley, a trainer for the 355th Security Forces Squadron. "But that's all it is, it's mental. Actually going out, picking up a training weapon and in a training site, being able to physically breach a door and clear through a building- that actually sets in stone all of the training and tactics and techniques we've taught them."

The training was set in an urban environment, allowing members of Security Forces to train clearing a building, much like they would when responding to an active shooter threat.

"If something happens, we're going to know how to respond to it, not just individually, but as teams," said Airman First Class Kevin Fleming, an Airman with Security Forces. "I've heard of active shooter training where they actually go in four-man teams, but now we're learning how to do it single, doubles, multiple rooms, so I'll think we'll be well prepared."

The active shooter training is a new type of training for many Defenders, but something that is a focus for many first-responders across the nation, not just military members.

"We base the scenarios off our personal experiences and training from other agencies, departments, or military services." Beasley said. "There's been multiple cases of [an active shooter situation] and we want to make sure our Defenders are fit, ready, able and capable of stopping that type of special threat."