US, S. Korean Airmen engage in CBRN-incident response exercise

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Service members from the 8th Fighter Wing and Republic of Korea Air Force's 38th Fighter Group participated in a bilateral chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear incident exercise here March 2.

The exercise was developed to bilaterally prepare U.S. and ROK forces for possible threats from their North Korean neighbors.

"The training is designed to help us understand the capabilities each of us brings to the table," said Master Sgt. Jeff Randall, 8th Civil Engineer Squadron readiness and emergency management element superintendent. "This CBRN training helps us be prepared to defend the base as a coherent unit."

The training began with a suspicious package injection at the ROKAF headquarters where U.S. and Korean forces responded and quelled the issue successfully, integrated as one team.

"This attack scenario allows us to not only learn, but teach our U.S. allies how we respond and how we can respond together," said 2nd Lt. Kim Jinki, 38th FG neurological, biological and chemical support team flight commander.

A ROKAF English translator and participant in the exercise provided his insight to the importance of training bilaterally with U.S. forces.

"It is a good chance for Americans and South Koreans to create a bond for future missions," said Airman 1st Class Noh Jungho, 38th FG NBC support team protection department technician. "As an air base here on the Korean peninsula, we can expect a chemical attack in war time, so being prepared for CBRN helps us maintain our fighting capabilities."

"We can save more lives and preserve more forces," Airman Noh added.

Part of the training included proper decontamination procedures. Members from Sergeant Randall's unit instructed their ROKAF partners on how to do the process and then watched, furnishing helpful tips along the way.

Sergeant Randall said the purpose of the training is not only to prepare for real-world events and contingencies, but for all CBRN-related matters.

"Whether you're deployed down range, here in Korea or back in the states, this type of training is very beneficial for the type of Airmen this era's Air Force needs," he said.

The Air Force sees CBRN training as a top priority for its Airmen. In a recent publication by the Air Force Doctrine Center, Lt. Gen. Allen Peck, Air University commander, said the possibility of a CBRN attack is of serious concern.

"The threat or use of chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear weapons by hostile regimes and terrorists represents one of the most difficult challenges facing our nation and our Air Force," he said. "Many of our adversaries are actively seeking or already possess weapons of mass destruction and have stated their willingness to employ them. The key to successful protection against this threat is our people and their dedication to this vital mission."

Kunsan's mission to defend the base, accept follow-on forces and take the fight north is instilled in the minds of all those who have and are serving as Wolf Pack warriors. This devotion and dedication exemplifies what General Peck and his associates look for in today's Airmen.

"We know what we need to do," said Senior Airman Bryan Scott, 8th CES readiness and emergency management journeyman. "This opportunity to sharpen our skills alongside our Korean wingmen equips us with the necessary tools and proficiency to defend the base and counter whatever our enemies throw our way."