Misawa Airmen prepared for PACAF inspection

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Brad Sprague
  • 35th Fighter Wing public affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  The 35th Fighter Wing will demonstrate their war-fighting capability to the Pacific Air Forces Inspector General when the Operational Readiness Inspection kicks off next week. 

"We are prepared to meet any challenge our nation may ask," said Col. Terrence O'Shaughnessy, 35th Fighter Wing commander. "We have a responsibility to train and be prepared at all times to help maintain the stability in this region and support operations down range." 

An ORI is designed to test the wing's ability to deploy personnel and aircraft and assess its capability as a war-fighting unit. 

During the first phase, or the Initial Response Readiness Inspection, Airmen focus on preparing to deploy. That preparation includes a large portion of the people stationed at Misawa--from aircraft and maintenance to all the support personnel required to sustain a deployment. 

The second part of the ORI, or Combat Employment Readiness Inspection, tests the wing's ability to survive and operate under wartime conditions. 

"We train the way we fight. Launching and recovering aircraft; operating in a chemical environment; displaying teamwork and the proper sense of urgency in any task ... this is what Misawa men and women are trained to do," said Colonel O'Shaughnessy. 

Colonel O'Shaughnessy went on to say that while it is important to show a "sense of urgency, we must never forget to operate safely." This inspection will be a safe and effective demonstration of our capabilities." 

Although the 14th Fighter Squadron and more than 500 Airmen are currently deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism, Colonel O'Shaughnessy said the Airmen remaining here will have the opportunity to excel, and showcase their extraordinary talent to the PACAF IG team. 

"Everyone here is prepared both mentally and physically," said the colonel. "Misawa has a critical role in ensuring peace and stability throughout the Pacific region. And by challenging ourselves today, we ensure that we can meet any challenge that may come our way tomorrow."