Dynamic Force: 366th CES defines readiness

Airman from the 366th Civil Engineer Squadron use teamwork to construct a tactical shelter during the Base Emergency Engineer Force training, Jan. 23, 2020, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. This training was conducted to equip Airman with skills from other career fields to enhance their readiness.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Tyrell Hall)

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- To be a truly dynamic force is to master versatility, flexibility and teamwork. The 366th Civil Engineer Squadron led the way in developing multi-capable Airmen by conducting their Base Emergency Engineer Force (BEEF) training, Jan. 23, 2020.

This month’s training is unique because it serves to equip Airmen with skills from other career fields for the purpose of increasing their capability and preparedness for rapid deployment.

“A key component in dynamic force employment is the ability to slim down our force, forward deploy and leave a small foot print to keep the enemy on their feet,” said Senior Master Sgt. Erick Lizarraga, 366th CES superintendent.

At least four squadrons from across the wing including, the 366th Operations Support Squadron, 366th Force Support Squadron and 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron, came together with the 366th CES to participate.

During this time, the 366th CES shut down operations and focused their efforts in a one-day training. The training enabled Airmen to refine their skills free of distractions and prepared them for rapid deployment.

This training was also part of the “bedding-down” stage, or building stage, in preparation for the Gunfighter’s phase exercise which is intended to further bolster their effectiveness in the Dynamic Force Employment model.

Having mission-ready Airmen from multiple career fields is essential to this. So, throughout the BEEF training the Airmen learned base defense and detaining protocols, tent construction, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system assembly and fuse preparation for Explosive Ordinance Disposal technicians.

By learning skills from other career fields, Airmen emphasize their level of capability to augment where support is needed, enabling operations flow to continue and maintain force efficiency.

The 366th CES also introduced a new tent structure system called the Rapid Deployment Tactical Military Shelter. It is designed to be completely set up in 10 minutes or less with a small crew of just six personnel. This structure is made of durable materials and can withstand wind speeds of up to 70 mph.

Though the day was long and eventful, the squadrons worked together to achieve success in their training. All for the purpose of developing a dynamic force of sharpened multi-capable Airmen ready to rapidly-deploy when duty calls.

“We are all marching towards the same objective and that’s to be prepared when our nation calls upon us.” said Lt. Col. Charles Hansen, 366 Civil Engineer Squadron commander.