126 FSS conducts field training exercise

Tech Sgt. Nichole Peterson, a Services Technician with the 126th Force Support Squadron, directs forklift training during the 126 FSS field training exercise at Scott AFB, Ill., April 6, 2013. The Illinois Air National Guard unit conducted training with both active duty and other National Guard units during the April unit training assembly. (National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Elise Stout)

126 FSS conducts field training exercise

Published June 18, 2013
By By: Airman First Class Nathan Dampf
126th Public Affairs Office

Scott Air Force Base, Ill. -- The 126th Force Support Squadron led a three-unit, total-force field training exercise during the April unit training assembly here, where they honed their skills and prepared for the possibility of a deployment.

Airmen from the 375 FSS - the 126th's active duty counterpart - and the Illinois Air National Guard's 183 FSS joined Guardsmen from the 126th in setting up a bare base, receiving forklift certifications and preparing meals.

"We're doing home station training using field feeding platforms as part of a single pallet expeditionary kitchen," said Master Sgt. Melanie Voyles, base services specialist with the 126 FSS. "We have different units working together, which is just like a deployment. And, it has worked out really well."

In addition to the tent set-up and food preparation, the services Airmen also received necessary forklift certifications that must be maintained on an annual basis.