Incirlik AB proves evacuation preparedness

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Chase Hedrick
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The 39th Air Base Wing conducted a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation exercise here Oct. 28 to 30 that tested the wing's command and control, notification and passenger processing functions.

The exercise validated the ability of Incirlik AB Airmen to conduct a NEO, while at the same time provided dependents an opportunity to experience the process. One-hundred and ninety dependent volunteers and 13 pets were familiarized with the passenger-processing aspect of a NEO that include gathering at the squadron rally point, going through the "deployment" line and receiving a pre-departure brief from a variety of wing agencies.

"I thought the process went very well, especially having four children," said Sheree Claudio, a 39th Medical Operations Squadron spouse. "It seemed like they had everything ready for us. They had a movie to watch, we had snacks here, it seemed like a seamless process and it was a no-brainer."

Organizations from across the base had a hand in the exercise, from the primary evacuee processing line to providing security, amenities and other important functions, said Master Sgt. Christopher Ingram, 39th Force Support Squadron Airman and family readiness center superintendant.

A large play area with a bouncy castle, games, movies and activities was provided as well as light refreshments from first sergeants through the chapel. After assessing the processing function Ingram added that each evacuee processed much faster than anticipated, demonstrating the wing's readiness.

A NEO is directed by the U.S. Department of State out of an abundance of caution when American citizens located overseas may be in danger from a variety of circumstances ranging from natural disasters to regional unrest.

"I am fully convinced we are ready to evacuate our dependents to a safe location should the situation ever require it," said Col. Craig Wills, 39th Air Base Wing commander. "I am proud of the work our Airmen and families did for this exercise, and I'm excited to see more progress as we continue to cultivate a culture of readiness here at Incirlik Air Base."