(From left to right) U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Allison Paddock, Tech. Sgt. Priscilla Steele and Master Sgt. Melanie Townsend, all members of the 18th Comptroller Squadron, set out sand bags to simulate splinter-proofing their facility during Exercise Beverly Bearcat 12-1, an operational readiness inspection on Kadena Air Base, Japan, Oct. 24, 2012. During exercises, Airmen are put through various scenarios, including chemical attacks, active shooter exercises and hardening a facility, in order to test their ability to survive and operate in a hostile environment. Townsend said though Airmen on Kadena are being inspected, they need to remember that performing in exercises is vital to preparing them for potential real-world scenarios in the future. “Being able to perform in this environment shows the world that we’re ready to take on the fight, if necessary, and show we’re capable as a team,” Townsend said. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Maeson L. Elleman)