From Tuesday-Monday, Sept. 2-8, units across the 5th Bomb Wing faced a series of scenarios designed to assess their ability to generate combat airpower, sustain mission operations and respond to unforeseen obstacles.

“Warbird Week is a multi-layered group of exercises designed to prepare 5th Bomb Wing airmen to succeed in generating combat power during their worst day,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Connor Klein, 5th Bomb Wing inspector general. “We must always be ready to execute long-range conventional strikes and achieve the strategic objectives of the president of the United States, even when facing a difficult or hostile environment.”

In addition to testing the 5th Bomb Wing’s ability to maintain simulated alert procedures, other training scenarios included an unmanned aerial drone event, first emergency response and unauthorized base entry.

Through realistic, high-pressure training, Warbird Week keeps the 5th Bomb Wing sharp, adaptable and mission-ready. The scenarios push airmen to perform at their peak while identifying opportunities to enhance overall performance.

First responders provide medical care to simulated casualties during a Warbird Week exercise at Minot Air Force Base Saturday, Sept. 6. Photo by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Luis Gomez.

“These exercises stress teams and individuals while improving decision-making at all levels, creating a stronger Warbirds organization with every iteration,” said Klein.