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Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, visits the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station June 8, 2024.

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Exercise surprises Airlift, tests readiness

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Richard Mekkri
  • 914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y --  On Friday, February 19, 2016 members of the 914th Airlift Wing participated in an anti-hijacking exercise at the base.

Four participants from various base agencies, acting as hijackers, simulated the takeover of a C-130 Hercules aircraft at approximately 12:30 p.m. The exercise was part of an anti-hijacking annual requirement.

"It's measuring our readiness," said Lt. Col. William Schunk, exercise director, 328th Airlift Squadron. "We want our commander to know that we are ready to respond to any type of emergency."

This was the first exercise of its kind for the installation. Involved were members from the 30th Aerial Port Squadron, 328th AS, 914th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, 914th Fire Emergency Services, 914th Maintenance Group, 914th Security Forces Squadron, and the airfield management office.

"Our objectives were met," said, Col. Brian Bowman, commander, 914th AW. "The sense of urgency displayed by the members of the 914th was impressive. They showcased the importance of our ability to be prepared for any situation."

The exercise took nearly two months of planning and commenced prior to a real-world mission. Other than members of the Wing Inspection Team, who planned the event, and active participants, very few additional personnel were aware that an event was taking place.

"We exercise. We drill. All of our core functions are rehearsed," said Schunk. "We have good working relationships between squadrons and demonstrated how well we work together to achieve common goals."