McConnell proves ready for war

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  June 22 through 29, Team McConnell participated in a Operational Readiness Inspection, which tests a unit's readiness capabilities and it's ability to survive and operate during contingency operations around the world.

Members from the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, 931st Air Refueling Wing, 156th Airlift Wing Puerto Rico Air National Guard and the 134th Air Refueling Wing Tennessee Air National Guard were graded both individually and as a whole on their capabilities.

Over the past five months, Team McConnell trained for contingency operations through several exercises in preparation for the ORI.

"I am so thankful to have been given this opportunity," said Maj. Leslie Maher, 22nd Air Refueling Wing Plans and Programs chief. "To watch the functional experts from around the base train and fine tune their Airmen to this high level of readiness is truly inspiring. The term 'Team McConnell' is accurate; no one entity is able to effectively accomplish the mission without the many others to do their jobs."

"I know how hard everyone worked and sacrificed to make this a success, and I am very grateful," said Col. James C. Vechery, 22nd ARW commander. "What impressed me the most was the outstanding attitudes displayed by everyone."

Airmen were tested not only in performing their duties as if they were in a contingency operation, but were also tested on many other skills that fall outside of their specialties.

Skills like Mission Oriented Protective Posture levels, self-aid and buddy care procedures and ability to survive and operate skills can help Airmen save their life or the lives of their fellow Airmen.

"I am very proud of all the members of Team McConnell," said Colonel Vechery. "Everyone worked extremely hard preparing for this inspection and our excellence really showed."

"The initial response portion went very well," said Major Maher. "All seven KC-135 Stratotanker deployment sorties were on time and on target. In addition, the only issues the deployment line raised were those induced by an imperfect levy from the IG itself - we overcame that and got the right people to the deployed location"

The IG team evaluates members individually and as a group. They do this by placing individuals in scenarios throughout the ORI.

"Team McConnell rose to every challenge imposed by the IG team," said Major Maher. "In addition, we overcame a severe storm on the first day of deploying, to meet all deadlines prescribed by the execution order."

"Team McConnell always puts their best foot forward and this inspection was no different," said Colonel Vechery. "Team McConnell proved we are a war-ready fighting machine and the Air Force's Center of Air Refueling Excellence."