Photo By Shane Hughes | U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Seth Lamb, a squad leader assigned to the 178th Security...... read more read more
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FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — Members of the 178th Security Forces Squadron recently completed a two-week joint training exercise with the U.S. Army Green Berets, from Oct. 18 to Nov. 1 on Fort Campbell, Ky. Participants gained critical expeditionary and combat skills in preparation for future global deployments.
The training brought together over 30 Air National Guard Security Forces units as part of a broader effort to enhance force readiness and collaboration with Special Forces. The 178th Wing served as both a participant unit and logistical support, arriving early as an advance team to coordinate transportation and infrastructure for incoming forces.
During the exercise, 178th defenders conducted close-quarters battle drills, ambush tactics, night operations, convoy coordination and mission planning with real-time scenarios. Much of the training was conducted at night to simulate realistic combat conditions. The final exercise included an air insertion that used a Chinook helicopter to raid a mock enemy compound which provided critical experience.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Steven Snyder said the exercise aims to enhance the U.S. Air Force’s objectives of Agile Combat Employment.
“This kind of hands-on training with Green Berets is invaluable,” Snyder said. “We’re learning how to operate at a higher standard, and it directly prepares us for future expeditionary missions.”
The event, known as “Sage Eagle,” also provided cross-branch exposure. Members of the 178th worked closely with elite Army Special Forces from the 5th Group. Green Berets, whose mission includes training foreign military partners, acted as mentors guiding the Guardsmen through tactical scenarios that built on evolving intelligence from previous missions.
“We’re knocking out annual requirements, building readiness, and getting exposure to real-world scenarios,” Snyder said. “The mentorship from Special Forces is a force multiplier for us too.”
Participants also had access to advanced technology like the Titan system for counter-drone defense, night vision gear, and extensive weapons training.
While most attendees were from Air National Guard units, the 178th played a key leadership role throughout the exercise. In addition to commanding a full platoon, members managed all vehicles, communications systems, and weapons logistics for the joint force.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Wilson said as the purpose of Security Forces continues to evolve, they must continue to participate in exercises to stay ready.
“For years, we’ve leaned into base security and law enforcement,” Wilson said. “Now we’re pivoting back to combat readiness, and this training is essential to that mission.”
| Date Taken: | 11.01.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 04.08.2025 11:53 |
| Story ID: | 494652 |
| Location: | FORT CAMPBELL, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 177 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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