Scott AFB Airmen complete CBRN training

Published May 5, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Divine Cox
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE -- From day one at Air Force basic military training, Airmen learn the skills necessary to help protect themselves and their fellow Airmen in a combat environment.

For one essential life-saving skill, Airmen must complete a refresher course every two years -- chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear, or CBRN, training.

"The CBRN training will teach you how to protect yourself from chemical and biological warfare agents, radioactive dust and particles and riot control agents," said Senior Airman Jonathan Lach, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness and Emergency Management Flight.

During the training, Airmen simulate being in a contaminated environment and perform proper procedures for reading M-8 and M-9 paper, changing into different mission oriented protective posture levels and how to react in flagged conditions. It also teaches Airmen how to stay safe in the event of a CBRN attack.

Staff Sgt. Stephanie Blevins, 375th CES Readiness and Emergency Management Flight, said, "This type of training develops confidence in an Airmen's equipment, so if an attack happens in a combat situation, Airmen will feel prepared."

The 375th CES readiness and emergency management flight teaches 54 classes a year, for more than 1,500 Airmen.

Airman Lach said the instructors must also maintain their own readiness.

"All CBRN instructors go through live agent training at the Chemical Defense Training Facility on Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo.," he said. "Through my personal experience, I know that the CBRN equipment works, so I impress that upon my students during class."