LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Senior enlisted leaders (SEL) developed battlefield leadership skills and practiced working as a team at the Warrior Airman Readiness Center at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March. 13, 2025.
The training exercise provided SELs an environment to tap into the battlefield mindset using their various experiences to collaborate as a unit in a simulated deployment environment, consisting of creating squads to locate an area, secure a base, build tents, establish communication and ensure the safety of those in their care.
After an open discussion with the chaplain about spiritual preparation for battle with a focus on Comprehensive Airman Fitness, the group returned to execute a field training exercise and put their planning and preparation to the test in a high-pressure environment.
“The Air Force always invests a lot in us to learn how to be a leader and how to develop, but effective leadership is using the right tools at the right time,” said Senior Master Sgt. Anna Burkhalter, 19th Security Forces Squadron operations superintendent. “That's more for working with your people, understanding what talents your people have [and] what things they need to be developed.”
Instructors that created the simulation planted threats that included simulated explosions and enemy personnel. The SELs were required to assess if they needed elimination while caring for casualties.
Key training topics included Size Activity Location Unit Time Equipment reports (SALUTE), Dead Injured Missing reports (DIM), entrenchment obstacles, camouflage, ammunition, casualties, constructing shelters and teamwork.
“My two pieces of advice for future senior enlisted leaders is to consistently demonstrate integrity, discipline and a strong work ethic and invest in people,” said Chief Master Sgt. Travis Williams, 913th Maintenance Squadron superintendent. “A great leader uplifts those around them, takes time to mentor, listen and supports everyone that comes to them for help and advice.”
The exercise also presented the opportunity to practice medical care skills with a helicopter where participants utilized hoist maneuvers and evacuating casualties from the field. The scenario allowed for collaboration between individuals with different experiences to accomplish the mission.
“Senior NCOs are responsible for the culture of the unit, and everything from how people act, the way you talk, what you find important – the people you're responsible for pick up on that,” Burkhalter said. “Your actions and words literally drive the future of that unit when it comes to the culture.”