Southwest Asia --
Gas! Gas! Gas!...is a common warning drilled into the minds
of Airmen from the beginning of their enlistment. The unsettling alert prompts them
to immediately dawn their individual protective equipment.
Airmen first employ IPE in basic military training when they
are exposed to tear gas, also known as CS (orto-chlorobenzylidene-malononitrile) gas.
A burning sensation in the face along with fluid seeping
from the eyes, nose and mouth are part of the gas chamber experience in BMT,
and Airmen quickly realize the value of their protective equipment.
Staff Sgt. Tommy, military working dog handler, recalled his
first time going through the chamber and how his gas mask came into play.
“Not having the mask on was completely terrible,” he said.
“It was all in your pores, it took forever to get it out and my eyes were
watering and nose was running. With the gas mask on, your eyes weren’t watering
and your face didn’t feel like it was burning off. It was a better experience
with the mask on and as soon as I got it on, it was complete relief.”
From the first encounter in BMT, to home station and
eventually deployed, IPE is available and plays a significant role in shielding
Airmen from various elements.
The IPE warehouse here contains 119,701 pieces of gear nearly
filling the industrial like building, all of which is primarily issued to
Airmen and at times to other government agencies.
“Our job is to ensure base personnel and forward deployers
get the proper protective equipment they need for any incoming attacks as well
as to perform their daily jobs,” said Staff Sgt. Nathiel, IPE non-commissioned officer
in charge.
According to Senior Airman Yeudy, IPE journeyman, the
clothing and equipment provided to Airmen defend them from several different
types of threats.
“[The advanced combat helmet and body armor] offer
protection against anything from ballistic attacks to explosions,” he said.
Naturally, after being utilized by numerous Airmen,
equipment becomes degraded. Nathiel said after continuous use the gear begins deteriorating
and it’s their responsibility to assess the items and ensure they’re functional.
“It’s important to do inventories frequently,” said Nathiel.
“It allows us to inspect all assets and maintain 100 percent accountability, which
is critical because in the event something happens we know exactly what we can
provide.”
Each mobility bag distributed can contain a variety of items,
which could include anything from individual body armor to cold weather gear.
The IPE team has a perpetual job of issuing and collecting
gear from Airmen coming in and out of theatre. Over the last year an estimated 13,200
personnel have been assisted with pick-up or return of gear.
Shortly after showing up on base, the IPE warehouse is one
of the first stops for new members.
“We issue required equipment to personnel upon their
arrival, because if anyone doesn’t have it and is harmed, then we’ve failed to
make sure their tour was as safe as possible,” said Yeudy.
When put in a situation to do so, Airmen are prepared to
utilize their IPE; because of this, it boosts their prospect of returning home
safely.
“These members look to this equipment to protect their
lives, so it’s our mission to deliver serviceable gear to ensure that,” said Nathiel.
(Editor’s note: Due to safety and security reasons,
last names and unit designators were removed.)