Challenge continues for security forces

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U.S AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (AFPN) --  Guardian Challenge security forces showed off their tactics and marksmanship skills at Jacks Valley here Aug. 14 and 15.

The tactics portion was planned out by a team of 19 Airmen and headed by Capt. Kathy Jordan, Air Force Space Command. She said the team started planning the scenario in May.

"After we had our plan, we executed 25 dry runs with academy cadets, Airmen and the strategy team to ensure everything would go smoothly," Captain Jordan said.

The only spectators allowed in the viewing area were members of the host team and tactics evaluators. Television and music were provided to enhance viewing of what the challengers were facing. Cheering and chants from all teams kept the morale high.

"Our team worked extremely hard to prepare for this event," said Col. Marty Whelan, 91st Space Wing commander at Minot Air Force Base, N.D. "The team here will represent the folks at home who couldn't make it. We will definitely show our stuff."

Marksmanship teams were faced with three tasks that tested their shooting expertise, involving the 9 mm Berretta, M-16 and grenade launching. The ammunition consisted of paint-filled canisters that exploded with orange blasts when targets were hit.

"It was tough," said Airman 1st Class Devin Stapelman of the 50th Security Forces Squadron at Schriever AFB, Colo. "The wind and distance were rough factors, but overall, I think we definitely got the job done."

Getting ready for the challenge, the numerous practice sessions on the tasks given were held at each team's respective bases. The teams also arrived early to get acclimated to the weather and sharpen their skills on the competition turf.

"There were no surprises," said Staff Sgt. Javier Mendez of the 30th SFS at Vandenberg AFB, Calif. "Our trainer did an outstanding job preparing us for competition. We were on target, on time."

The final challenge for the security forces is the obstacle course today. Results will be tallied and posted at the awards banquet Aug. 17.

In addition to Vandenberg, Minot and Schriever, other bases competing are Peterson and Buckley AFB, Colo.; F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo.; Los Angeles AFB, Calif.; Patrick AFB, Fla.; and Malmstrom AFB, Mont.