McChord deploys flight of security forces reservists

Published July 6, 2009
By Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle
446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- On July 5, the 446th Security Forces Squadron sent a flight of 20 reservists to Southwest Asia for six months. It was the largest group of Air Force Reserve security forces from McChord to go on an Air Expeditionary Force deployment since Sept. 11, 2001.

The flight will support Patriot Defender, securing the installation, manning watch towers and performing gate and security checks.

"It's huge as a unit," said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Russey, an installation patrolman with the 446th SFS. "I've got active-duty friends who have been to Afghanistan and Iraq numerous times, and now we get the chance to help relieve their burden."

According to Sergeant Russey, deploying as a flight presented an ideal challenge.

"We've never deployed this many people at one time to a combat zone," he said. "It'll be a real awakening for the young troops because they're used to traditional Reserve weekend duties like computer-based training, keeping records up to date and miscellaneous training.

"However, we've got a lot of (NCOs) who have deployed to an area of responsibility," he said. "They can help educate the younger people. The good thing about the Reserve is that people have different backgrounds who have deployed. Some active duty, some from other services and they bring their experiences with them."

According to Senior Airman Tara Currah, getting ready to go overseas was not an issue. Preparations included going to briefings, having medical records updated, out-processing, having gear and uniforms issued, getting physical training and studying information about the region.

"The unit has been really organized," she said. "It's been smooth. They've been up to date on scheduling. Our leadership has been organized throughout the entire process. Tech. Sgt. Jason Steen, our unit deployment manager, has been on top of things, making sure we're prepared and get to spend time with our families before we leave."

Both Sergeant Russey and Airman Currah believe in having the support of families.

"My family is supportive," Sergeant Russey said. "They understand that it has to be done. I reassure them that I'll be OK. I do what I can to help minimize their anxiety."

"They're being supportive," said Airman Currah. "They're proud that I'm going, and it's been a smooth transition for them so far."

Sergeant Russey said his squadron depends on others in the wing to out-process his fellow security forces Airmen smoothly.

"The unit appreciates the support from the group and wing to help us out-process," he said. "They have gone out of their way to get us out there. A lot of people in the wing stepped up and made sure we were taken care of." (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)