219th Security Forces Squadron trains at Camp Grafton

  • Published
  • By Capt Penny Ripperger
  • 119th Wing Public Affairs
Devils Lake, N.D. --  The 219th Security Forces Squadron located in Minot, N.D. will conduct heavy weapons qualification firing and ground combat skills training at Camp Grafton in Devils Lake June 5-8.

Media is encouraged to attend and participate in the training on Saturday or Sunday.

The purpose of the training is to ensure that Airmen stay proficient in their security forces training by reinforcing skills and techniques used during missile field security duties and overseas deployments.

During the exercises Airmen will divide into an aggressor and a defender team in a simulated wartime scenario. The Airmen will be using simulated rounds, ammunition similar to paintballs, to create a realistic combat environment. Airmen may be required to utilize land navigation and patrolling skills throughout the exercises.

On Saturday and Sunday heavy weapons firing will be conducted in the morning from approximately 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and ground combat skills training with simulated rounds will occur in the afternoon from approximately 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Land navigation and patrol training will be conducted on Friday afternoon.

Times of training are adjustable and can be modified to fit schedules as requested.

The 219th SFS is attached to the 119th Wing, the North Dakota Air Guard base located in Fargo, N.D. The squadron was officially recognized as the 219th Security Forces Squadron during an activation ceremony on Oct 18, 2008. Approximately 30 Air Guard members from the Fargo base moved to Minot to serve in the relatively new squadron.

Once fully staffed, the squadron will be the largest Air National Guard Security Forces Squadron in the nation.

Please contact Penny Ripperger, 119th Wing Public Affairs Officer, at 701-451-2194 for more information and to make arrangements prior to arriving at Camp Grafton to allow time to prepare for media participation.

What: 219th Security Forces Squadron trains at Camp Grafton and Camp Grafton South.

When: Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Where: Camp Grafton, 4417 Highway 20, Devils Lake, N.D. 58301

Media Instructions: Please contact Penny Ripperger to make arrangements prior to arriving at Camp Grafton to allow time to prepare for media participation.

Media is welcome and encouraged to participate in the training.