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178th completes Alpena training mission

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Michael Gibson
  • 178th Fighter Wing
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio --  More than 300 Airmen from the 178th Fighter Wing completed a training mission to Alpena, Mich., Aug. 3 to improve skills and enhance camaraderie.

Airmen from the Intelligence, Reconnaissance, Mission Support and Medical Groups participated in multiple training and community relation activities.

"I think it went really well," said Maj. Justin Chapman, 178th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander and project officer for the trip, "The feedback has been outstanding, on the training and the whole atmosphere of being here and getting to know people again."

Chapman said this was different than previous trips because there was no central theme.

"We knew going in this was going to be a big change from what we've done in the past, not having jets up here, a lot more people than we usually take on a trip," said Chapman. "Each unit developed training that they could benefit from."

Some of the training included Installation Defense Planning and Search and Recovery.

"All the training was outstanding," said Chief Master Sgt. Ottis LeMaster, 178th FW command chief. "Let's take what we got here and build on it."

Airmen also participated in multiple community relations activities with Habitat for Humanity, Humane Society and hospice care centers.

"We wanted to give back to the community while we were out here at the Alpena training site," said 2nd Lt. Timothy Webb, 125th Intelligence Squadron.

The 178th Airmen have plenty of positive things to say about the trip.

"I liked the experience at Alpena," said Airman 1st Class Ashley Magoch, from 178th Force Support Squadron. "I've been able to meet a lot of new people. It's been a lot better than I thought it would be."

This was her first trip to Alpena. She said the training she received was good and can be used for any one, not just military.

"Overall the trip has gone great and everybody is having a good time," said Col. Gregory Schnulo, 178th FW commander. "Appreciate that everyone is being responsible and doing the things they need to do. By all indications this has been a successful Alpena trip."