For training, LRS willing to go the distance

  • Published
  • By Maj. Jean Thong
  • 908th LRS
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  To receive on-the-job training or to maintain proficiency on key core tasks, Reservists often have to find other locations that offer training not available at their home base.

Thirty-five members of the 908th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) recently returned to Maxwell from a two-week annual tour, hosted by the 627th LRS at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

The Pacific Northwest location was selected because it is one of the few bases that still staffs and manages LRS functions with military members.

Transportation was graciously provided by the 916th Air Refueling Wing, with the crew representing the 77th Air Refueling Squadron (ARS) at Seymore Johnson AFB, N.C. It was the first time many of the LRS Reservists had flown in a KC-135, and two had the chance to ride in the jump seat during the flight. Airman First Class Jarrius Richardson, the lowest ranking Airman, and Senior Airman Heather Wheeler, the youngest, were given the unique opportunity.

Once they had arrived, the Alabama-based Airmen took advantage of the unique opportunities offered by their host unit. Logistics Planners received briefs on the Installation Deployment Plan (IDP), Base Support Plan, and Support Agreements.

They also received table-top exercises and training on how the 627th utilizes a wide variety of logistics capabilities in the performance of its mission. These included using technology to provide maximum visibility and near real-time status of supply movement, transportation assets, and aggregated reporting of cargo and passenger movements.

Other capabilities included assets used to plan and execute the strategic movement of forces from one region to another, as well as managing a database containing logistics equipment and supplies.

Logistics planners received training in all components of the career field, to include a walking tour of the cargo deployment function.

"This training was crucial in completing upgrade training for our Airmen," said Chief Master Sgt. Connie Rollins. "The active-duty unit was very eager to provide training, as they have not had Reservists visit them in many years. We were included in all daily functions to compare the difference between active and Reserve logistics plans functions."

"This was one of the best annual tour experiences for Logistics-Plans since I have been in the office."

In the Traffic Management Office, logisticians assisted with 20 mission-capable shipments, resulting in a total of 780 line items being processed. They helped 30 members with the mode of travel, foreign clearance guide navigation, and special-order requirements for different countries. They also had to determine member entitlements, find the cheapest lodging rates and understand the proper use of the Government Travel Card.

  Additionally, 50 active-duty members transferring to another base for assignment received processing for Personally Procured Movements via the Defense Personal Property System.

The 627th Material Management Flight provided training on the Air Force Equipment Management System, the Mobility Inventory Control and Accountability System, weapons-vault management, and Due-In From Maintenance (DIFM) actions.

Training received at JBLM allowed Petroleum, Oils and Lubricant personnel to complete all 5-Level core task requirements, enabling all fuels personnel to reach 100 percent on the fuels Training Visibility Ledger. 

Vehicle Operations received roll-over training and completed requirements for refresher and on-the-job training.

Once the daily duties were completed, 908th members spent their free time sight-seeing, exploring Seattle, hiking Mount Rainier, and taking part in 627th physical training activities.

"The LRS benefited by getting hands-on training from the 627th," said LRS Commander Lt. Col. Barry Crane. "Besides being an obvious retention tool, this type of annual tour allows us to get quality AFSC training, ensures the squadron's mission readiness, and allows us to perform at a higher level."

McChord was an excellent training location. Overall, it was a great experience for our members to be working with active-duty members, getting a snapshot of their lifestyle and experiencing how respective sections are being managed elsewhere.