YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Twenty defenders from the 927th Security Forces Squadron from the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., participated in the Integrated Defense Leadership Course here July 30.
The IDLC course is designed to ensure Air Force Reserve security forces defenders are combat-ready by providing intense hands-on training.
IDLC is based in Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, and utilizes some training facilities at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center. Throughout the two-week training, squadrons are split up either as students or opposing forces under the training from experienced cadre members.
“We try to make the training as real as possible, with full-scale exercises that include having defenders move and work on various terrains, land navigation, clearing buildings, field exercises and more,” said Staff Sgt. Alfredo Sandoval-Alverez, IDLC cadre and instructor. “Building up these defenders and giving them the tools that they can pass along to other members to build and create a stronger team—that’s the goal of this training.”
During their time at Youngstown, defenders are taught in a classroom setting, on the field, and ultimately, take on an exercise that replicates real-world combat to hone in on their skillsets.
“This training highlights the team weaknesses and strengths, while also providing the tools to improve yourself and the team as defenders,” said Staff Sgt. Hansel Sosa-Rodriguez, IDLC student and response force member from the 927th SFS. “The program re-enforces the need for teamwork as an essential aspect for mission completion.”
IDLC is one way security forces defenders throughout the Air Force Reserve stay ready to carry out their mission whenever the nation calls. The 927th SFS will return to Florida with new training experiences that will enhance their overall readiness.