IG looks for proper evaluations, perseverance during BB 14-02

An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 36th Fighter Squadron descends for landing during Operational Readiness Exercise Beverly Bulldog 14-02 at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 6, 2014. Both F-16s and A-10 Thunderbolt II’s fly training sorties during OREs to help pilots hone their skills. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Ashley J. Thum)

IG looks for proper evaluations, perseverance during BB 14-02

An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 36th Fighter Squadron touches down after a training sortie during Operational Readiness Exercise Beverly Bulldog 14-02 at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 6, 2014. Aircrews and pilots work together to accomplish flying sorties during OREs as they would in a real-world contingency operation. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Ashley J. Thum)

IG looks for proper evaluations, perseverance during BB 14-02

Published May 5, 2014
By Airman 1st Class Ashley J. Thum
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Operational Readiness Exercise Beverly Bulldog 14-02 began May 5 and is slated to run through May 9.

The ORE's priorities are effective integration of operational and tactical units; effective installation C2, recovery and defense; and the validation of United States Forces Korea and component noncombatant evacuation operations plans, procedures and requirements.

Ultimately, the exercise will offer Airmen the chance to perfect their wartime skills.

Tech. Sgt. Sadek Brandford, 51st Fighter Wing Inspector General Office deputy inspector, said the way to make that happen is through honest and fair evaluations by wing inspection team members.

"We're trying to ensure the exercise stays according to plan and follows the scenarios that have been strategically placed to allow WIT members and role players to hone that particular area of expertise," Brandford said.

BB 14-02 will also be an opportunity for participants to see how the wing's daily goals of strengthening the team and maintaining realistic and robust readiness have been engineered to prepare them for real-world contingencies.

Although still in its early stages, the exercise has already seen jets launch, chalks process and other scenarios involving simulated self- aid and buddy care unfold.

Brandford said there is room for improvement, but that he is impressed by what he has seen so far.

"The Airmen are doing a great job," Brandford said. "I would encourage them to move with a sense of urgency, and not to be nervous when they see a red badge coming their way. Things will get harder, but stay in the fight."

BB 14-02 is Brandford's first exercise at Osan, and he said he looks forward to the rest of the week.

"I'm excited to see how it turns out and to do my best," Brandford said.