97th Civil Engineer Squadron turns deployment lessons into readiness training
The 97th Civil Engineer Squadron hosted a predeployment training exercise at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Oct. 6, 2026. The training was designed to bridge critical operational gaps and better prepare Airmen for the unique physical demands, tactical duties and mental stressors of an overseas deployment.
The trainers hosting this exercise addressed vital training gaps in which they identified while deployed.
“We aren’t just looking to build skills,” said U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Keegan Hornaman, 97th CES project programmer. “We want to build critical thinkers who can adapt to any threat we may face in today’s conflict and future fights.”
Drawing on recent deployment experiences, the exercise introduced Airmen to coordinating command and control activities, directing damage assessment teams and practicing base recovery under simulated drone and ballistic missile threats. Participants also received an introduction to heavy equipment use and practiced responding to red alerts through bunker simulations.
The briefings provided an overview of the deployment location, regional developments and the mission Airmen would support. The training also covered ways to stay informed and radio communication etiquette.
During the physical portion, Airmen wore helmets and body armor with protective plates while completing activities designed to help them become accustomed to moving and working in their equipment.
“Ideally, this will provide them with one less thing they have to worry about and prepare them to hit the ground running on day one of arriving in theater,” Hornaman said.
The training exercise concluded with instruction on managing stressors that may arise in a deployed environment, addressing the personal challenges of deployment alongside its operational demands.
Hornaman said the exercise marked the first of additional training engagements intended to refine how the squadron prepares for deployed operations as threats and mission requirements change.
“This training leverages the hard-earned experience and lessons learned from deployers who’ve recently returned from the CENTCOM area of operations,” said Lt. Col. Jesse Lantz, 97th CES commander.
“Fortunately, by taking this training and exercising seriously, they will build upon fresh experience and realism that will drastically improve their ability to perform our wartime functions.”
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