Camp Guernsey: Regional training center opens

Members of Camp Guernsey’s regional training center train for convoy tactics during an exercise March 13. There were 98 students from 29 wings attending the pre-deployment training (U.S. Air Force photos/Airman 1st Class Alex Martinez).

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An RTC student shoots at opposing forces equipped with mock weapons and ground burst simulators. The students tested on correct applications of procedures learned in the classroom before the exercise. Along with convoy training, students also learned air base defense tactics and close-quarters combat. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Alex Martinez).

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Camp Guernsey: Regional training center opens

Published March 21, 2008
By Tech. Sgt. Kurt Arkenberg
90th Space Wing Public Affairs

F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Warren's 90th Ground Combat Training Squadron at Camp Guernsey, Wyo. has been designated a regional training center for Airmen from around the world.

The site is one of several pre-deployment Air Force training locations recently designated as such.

According to Maj. Troy Carlson, 90th GCTS commander, the goal of the 12-day training is straight-forward: teaching Airmen how to both act and react, eliminating hesitations.

"We simply want them to be comfortable and confident under any scenario," Major Carlson said. "When they encounter enemy engagement, I want this training to help them react instinctively instead of having to think about their response."

Major Carlson said Airmen are trained for convoy operations security, forward operating base security and clearing buildings and villages for their use.

Nearly 100 Airmen from 29 wings recently completed this training at Camp Guernsey prior to deploying to Afghanistan or Iraq. Most were deploying together in groups around the area of responsibility.

"Some of these guys were sent here as groups who will then deploy together as teams," said Tech. Sgt. Tony Bostic, 90th GCTS instructor. "The teamwork is established in pre-deployment training instead of on-the-fly in the AOR," he added.

In addition to the official curriculum, many trainees found the interaction between students and instructors who have deployed helpful.

"For those of us who've never deployed, some of best information came from simply talking to those who have," said Capt. Paul Tinker, an engineer from Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. "From knowing what creature comforts to take, to what to expect day-to-day, the guidance from experienced Airmen who have already deployed is good to know."

The 66,000-acre training area is where the culmination of nine days of tactics training becomes applied combat ability.

"It's great to be able to practice the practical applications of the classroom training in terrain that's similar to what I'll see in the AOR," said Tech. Sgt. Jason Jeitler, a security forces member from Hanscom AFB, Mass.

As a regional training center, Camp Guernsey should see its stock rise among the services.

"This is going to be a recognized training venue," said Senior Master Sgt. David John, 90th GCTS operations superintendent. "The capability that Guernsey has and the very few restrictions we have open up a lot of potential."

Major Carlson agrees the training opportunities at Camp Guernsey prepare Airmen for scenarios tailored to the environment where they will deploy, and the training is gaining reputation.

"The Air Force is making the conscious effort to get people to training," Major Carlson said. "This camp is getting better and is going to be one of the preferred training centers in the country."