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Wings integrate at ORI tabletop

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • Staff writer
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  McChord hosted an interactive table top discussion Jan. 30 at the Chapel Support Center in a move to better position three participating airlift wings for success in the upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection.

Participating Airmen from the 62nd and 446th Airlift Wings and the 319th Air Refueling Wing at Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D., gathered and discussed the upcoming flyaway via the Defense Connect Online program, which allowed Airmen at Grand Forks to view slides simultaneously and hear discussions in the group setting.

"The DCO allowed us to fully integrate Grand Forks as a partner in this exercise and walk them through the process," said John Schmedake, 62nd AW deputy chief of plans and programs.

According to wing officials, the table top was the first interactive event of its kind here used to prepare for an ORI.

"It allowed us to lay down a game plan for the flyaway and get everyone on the same page," said Capt. Derek Gallagher, 62nd AW deputy chief of ORI preparation.

Prior to actually walking through the exercise scenario, each unit made a presentation detailing its role in the exercise.

"Everyone involved got to see the processes and the communication flow up and down the chain of command," Captain Gallagher said. "It gave everyone a chance to see what the other functions are doing during the exercise."

Seeing how each unit fit into the exercise gave the Airmen involved a better understanding of what their role is so they aren't operating blindly, he said.

The tabletop also reinforced the fact everyone involved must be precise when it comes to communication within the unit and other exercise participants, said Capt. Samuel Aston, 62nd Logistics Readiness Squadron.

"The biggest thing our guys realized is that you have to be very detail-oriented when it comes to relaying information to the Operations Control Center and to other Airmen because sometimes things can get lost in translation," said Captain Aston, whose unit is responsible for transportation, fuels, supply support and the redeployment during the exercise.

"I think everyone definitely walked away (from the tabletop) with a sense of comfort," Captain Gallagher said.