Photo By Master Sgt. Matthew Plew | MSgt. Kevin Green, 48th Security Forces Squadron (second from the left), stands with...... read more read more
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GANDO AIR BASE, Gran Canaria Island, Spain -- U.S. Airmen assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron "Grim Reapers" are supporting the Spanish-led air-to-air combat training exercise, OCEAN SKY 19 at Gando Air Base. The multinational training, developed and coordinated by the Spanish air force, is built on the foundational principle that a strong military alliance can deter any current or potential threat to NATO, its partners, or its allies.
As with any military flightline operation, safeguarding aerial assets remains a top priority. During times of operational necessity, 48th Security Forces Squadron Airmen here have implemented an augmentee program. These "Grim Reaper Guardians," consist of Airmen assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing who are provided with the essential skills to perform basic security and police functions in order to assist with flightline protection enforcement.
"As a defender, we have a high standard and lofty expectations when it comes to the protection of our military assets," said MSgt. Kevin Green, 48th Security Forces Squadron. "It can be a tough situation for new augmentees, but this group has really embraced the long watch-hours and have arrived for every shift with a positive attitude."
The augmentee program provides U.S. Airmen with a unique opportunity to work closely with Spanish Security police at Gando, and build a familiarization with local Air Base defense procedures.
"The opportunity to work as a Security Forces augmentee here for exercise Ocean Sky 19 has really made me feel a lot closer to our 48th Fighter Wing mission," said Senior Airman Nicole Scott, 48th Medical Support Squadron.
Exercises like OCEAN SKY are designed to enhance a collective partnership, improve aerial tactics, techniques and procedures, and remain a symbol of the shared commitment between Spain, the U.S. and NATO to maintaining the continued security of Europe.
"I'm very proud of this group," said Green. "They have lived up to SFS expectations, and their commanders should be proud that they selected such great unit ambassadors."
| Date Taken: | 10.23.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 10.23.2019 07:52 |
| Story ID: | 348806 |
| Location: | GANDO AIR BASE, ES |
| Web Views: | 685 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Ocean Sky 19: Grim Reaper Guardians, by MSgt Matthew Plew, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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