Photo By Airman 1st Class Saisha Cornett | U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and 19th Security...... read more read more
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LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Airmen from the 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and 19th Security Forces Squadron came together for an aircraft defense and protection training exercise at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, May 28, 2025.
The training blended classroom instruction with hands-on scenarios and was developed to give Airmen the skills to respond to threats while performing real-world tasks like refueling or configuring aircraft, especially in high-risk or unpredictable environments.
"The training provides maintainers with tailored instruction in use of force, decision-making under pressure, escalation and de-escalation, intel gathering, cultural awareness, and clear communication," said Master Sgt. Mack Suggs, 19th AMXS lead production superintendent. "Moving beyond computer-based training, it features realistic exercises that enhance their ability to protect themselves and support the mission."
Building on the foundation, Master Sgt. Chelsie Suggs, 19th AMXS assistant superintendent, highlighted the bigger picture behind what they were striving for and why it matters in operational settings.
"This is about preparing our Airmen for potential threat scenarios, especially when Fly-Away Security Team members or Phoenix Ravens aren’t available," she said. "We’re equipping them to respond in ways that are safe and effective."
Phoenix Ravens are specially trained U.S. Air Force Security Forces members whose duties include protecting aircraft and aircrew in high-threat areas and austere environments.
Scenarios for the exercise were designed to empower Airmen with skills to defend themselves and the aircraft they work on while also strengthening the relationship between maintenance and security forces—building a more united and resilient team.
Staff Sgt. Alexander Jackson, 19th SFS unit training instructor, was one of the defenders who led the hands-on instruction during the event. His role focused on shifting mindsets, building confidence, and shaping Airmen into warfighters.
"We wanted to build a warfighter mindset in every Airman," he continued. "By working together, we’re helping maintainers gain the confidence and instincts they need if they ever find themselves in a dangerous situation."
Looking ahead, Master Sgt. Mack Suggs said he hopes the instruction relayed to the Airmen leaves a lasting impact.
"I hope Airmen leave with a broader understanding of how to approach threats, giving them the tools to protect themselves both physically and within legal boundaries so they can keep the mission going," he said. "I love seeing different units working together. From the defender checking IDs to the maintainer turning wrenches, we all play a part in mission success."
| Date Taken: | 06.05.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.05.2025 14:30 |
| Story ID: | 499753 |
| Location: | LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, ARKANSAS, US |
| Web Views: | 43 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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