353rd SOG Pacific Air Commandos ready for war

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Marilyn Holliday
  • 353rd Special Operations Group Public Affairs
KADENA AB, Japan --  The Air Commandos of the Pacific proved they have what it takes to survive and operate in combat during an operational readiness inspection which ended last week. 

For one week at Kadena Air Base and then another two weeks at Daegu AB, Korea, the 353rd Special Operations Group was tested by its headquarters, Air Force Special Operations Command, located at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The results were an overall excellent rating. 

It began with an initial response portion, where the group proved its capability to deploy at a moment's notice. 

"The initial response phase tested our ability to pack up our people and our equipment and head to a bare bones arrangement," said Col. David Mullins, 353rd SOG commander. "This act is no small feat, but with the support of the 18th Wing, our host, we got it done quickly." 

The scenario continued at Daegu when ability to survive and operate, employment, and mission support were inspected. 

The inspection then continued with all of the group's Air Force specialties showcasing their capabilities for inspectors while tasked with a wartime scenario. 

As the focal point for all U.S. Air Force special operations activities throughout the U.S. Pacific Command theatre, the group showed it is prepared to conduct a variety of high-priority, low-visibility missions aboard the MC-130P Combat Shadow or MC-130H Combat Talon II aircraft. 

"Our mission is air support of joint and allied special operations forces in the Pacific," said Colonel Mullins. "We maintain a worldwide mobility commitment and participate in Pacific theater exercises throughout the year. It feels good to prove our combat readiness. I am proud of every member of this group." 

The scenario included responses for mass casualties, missile attacks, ground attacks, infiltration and exfiltration, aircraft launches and much more. 

"Maintaining combat readiness is a key factor in supporting the Global War on Terror," said Colonel Mullins. "Training is the most important thing we do and operational readiness is the centerpiece of our mission. Training prepares us for whatever mission we may be tasked with and wherever it takes us." 

"This inspection proved once again that the Air Commandos of the Pacific are ready to act - and act fast when called upon," Colonel Mullins said.