PACER FORGE
“Forging Resilient Warriors”
Week Six of Air Force Basic Training marks a crucial juncture in your trainee’s journey toward becoming an Airman. As they enter this week, they are expected to consolidate all the knowledge, skills, and determination instilled in them over the past weeks by their dedicated Military Training Instructors (MTIs). Week Six focuses on the Primary Agile Combat Employment Range, Forward Operations Readiness Generation Exercise, or PACER FORGE. This two-day scenario-based deployment simulates real-world situations, testing trainees’ adaptability, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure. PACER FORGE mimics the Air Force’s force generation process and culminates their Air Force BMT experience.
PACER FORGE
The U.S. Air Force has extended its Basic Military Training (BMT) capstone exercise, PACER FORGE, from 36 to 57 hours. This exercise immerses trainees in a simulated deployment environment, emphasizing Agile Combat Employment (ACE) principles. Trainees operate in small teams to build and defend operating locations, recover high-value assets, manage resupply drops, and provide tactical combat casualty care, thereby enhancing their leadership skills and adaptability.
The extension reflects the Department of the Air Force’s commitment to developing Airmen and Guardians capable of thriving in dynamic operational environments, aligning training practices with real-world demands. Following BMT, ACE-minded training continues through exercises like BRACER FORGE, which builds upon the foundational skills acquired during PACER FORGE. These programs collectively aim to cultivate agile, flexible, and accountable Airmen ready to meet contemporary challenges.
One of the primary goals of PACER FORGE is to reinforce the concepts introduced during earlier stages of basic training. Trainees are expected to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired thus far in a dynamic and realistic environment. By experiencing simulated deployment scenarios, they gain valuable insights into the demands and challenges they may encounter in their future roles in the Air Force.
Gas Chamber
One significant aspect of Week Six training is the emphasis on surviving and operating in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) environments. The notorious “gas chamber” exercise is pivotal to this training. Trainees are exposed to a controlled chemical agent environment while wearing protective masks. This exercise underscores the importance of proper mask maintenance and wear, as it can be a matter of life or death in CBRN scenarios. Trainees experience the consequences of improper mask usage firsthand, reinforcing the critical nature of adhering to protocol in hazardous situations.
Final Exam
Towards the end of the week, trainees will take their end-of-course written exam, covering all academic lessons taught throughout their training. This comprehensive knowledge test encompasses many subjects vital for their success in the Air Force. From military history to operational procedures, proficiency in these areas demonstrates their commitment to excellence. It is not merely a test of memorization but a reflection of their dedication to mastering the foundational principles that will guide them throughout their military careers.
Supporting Your Trainee to the Finish Line
As we end Week Six in Air Force Basic Training, it will be clear this has been a pivotal time for your trainee. From the PACER FORGE action-packed challenges to the CBRN training’s eye-opening experiences, they will have been pushed and tested in every way possible. As they gear up for their end-of-course exam, it’s crucial they remember all they’ve learned over the past six weeks. Now, more than ever, your trainee needs your support and encouragement. With graduation approaching fast and their departure imminent, this week is your last chance to send them letters of love and motivation. Show them how proud you are of their hard work and determination. Write those final letters filled with love, encouragement, and excitement for what lies ahead.
One final reminder to keep your Sandboxx notifications on and to refer to the official web page for updates on graduation and the schedule of events.
I look forward to returning next week with your last weekly update. If you are traveling to JBSA Lackland, San Antonio, TX, please be safe and cherish the moment. What seemed so far away almost seven weeks ago is now here! We made it through this part of their military journey together. I hope these updates helped you along the way.
Aim High…Fly, Fight, Win!
CMSgt “Chief” Chris McCool, USAF(ret)
A Career in the Air Force Will Take You Places
Joining the U.S. Air Force is a noble call to service, offering extensive benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re considering enlisting or know someone who might be interested, learning about this journey is the first step toward a fulfilling career as an Airman.