What’s so super about the Super UTA?

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Grady Epperly
  • 507th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Citizen Airmen of the 507th Air Refueling Wing here participated in the second annual Super Unit Training Assembly April 2-5 to accomplish ancillary training requirements.

The Super UTA consists of two UTA weekends performed back-to-back over four consecutive days.

“We need our Citizen Airmen trained and ready to deploy, but we must balance that with our civilian careers and family life,” said Col. Douglas Gullion, 507th Air Refueling Wing Commander. “Performing a Super UTA allows us to get training accomplished efficiently and give time back to our Airmen.”

Briefing topics ranged from self-aid and buddy care to suicide prevention and anti-terrorism awareness.

“Operationally and administratively, the Super UTA provides an opportunity for us to complete specific ancillary and functional job training that is critical to our mission readiness,” said Lt Col. Kimberly Howerton, 507th Air Refueling Wing Process Improvement Manager.

In addition to briefings, the hands-on portion of the Super UTA consisted of identifying unexploded ordnances and contamination control during an Emergency Management rodeo. The rodeo tested personnel on their ability to continue operations under any circumstances.

“Completing the majority of our ancillary training at one time means UTAs for the rest of the year can focus on mission and job training,” said Howerton.