This is Only a (167th) Drill

Jun 13, 2023

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — The 167th Airlift Wing in Martinsburg has announced a Readiness Exercise August 9-13 at Shepherd Field.

An announcement from the 167th says “Our Airmen will engage in a variety of simulations and scenarios as an essential part of our preparedness training.”

167th Airlift Wing Lt. Col. Jonathan McCullough said there will be an increase in personnel at the base south of Martinsburg, an “increase in Ops tempo,” and, “some possible booms and bangs and sirens. You’ll see different aircraft in the air.”

The press release from the 167th Airlift wing said those near Shepherd Field may notice “increased activity on and around the installation to include increased air traffic, pyrotechnics, and alarms and notifications on the loudspeaker system.”

Lt. Col. McCullough was asked if the training is tailored to a potential conflict. “Most of that is done through simulations.” He said a working group uses directives from their superiors as well as intelligence reports and analysis.

“We simulate those threats or challenges that our enemy or adversaries may present or have capabilities, whether that be a country, a group of people or individuals that have intentions to disrupt or harm,” he said.

“We simply create that scenario so that our force can learn and gain experience and be more comfortable in those situations,” Lt. Col. McCullough said.

“Now, no one is ever comfortable in a war or crisis,” he said, “but the more experience you can gain, the better off you’re going to be.”

As for next week’s training in Martinsburg, “The exercise is for training purposes and will be conducted in a manner that ensures the safety and security of everyone involved,” according to the announcement.

Lt. Col. McCullough says the base is trying to be a good neighbor and to that end, most operations will be suspended around 5:00 or 6:00 each evening.

During the exercise, on-base services will be modified as follows:

-Medical Appointments will be offered on Thursday, August 9 only.

-Force Support Squadron Customer Support Services (including ID card services) will be offered to current unit members only.

-The Base Gym will be open for current unit members only.

-The Base Shoppette will be open for current unit members only with the following modified hours of operation.

•Wednesday and Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

•Friday and Saturday: 8:00 a.m – 4:00 p.m.

•Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Lt. Col. McCullough made his remarks on Panhandle Live, broadcast weekday mornings on MetroNews affiliate The Panhandle News Network.