By Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier

Seventh Air Force Public Affairs

 

 

 

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea – Exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian came to a close Aug. 28, 2015, culminating combined training between U.S. and Republic of Korea militaries throughout the Korean Peninsula.

The annual, defensive-based exercise began Aug. 17, entailing large-scale computer-simulated scenarios held in real time in order to enhance readiness, protect the region and maintain stability in the Northwest Asia region. 

Approximately 30,000 U.S. service members participated in UFG -15 alongside their ROK counterparts and members from seven sending state militaries, to include Austrailia, Canada, Denmark and the United Kingdom. 

“It gives me a great sense of pride to see our Airmen perform at such a high level,” said Brig. Gen. Walter Sams, mobilization assistant to the 7th Air Force commander “It’s been two very intense weeks of training, and our Airmen have stepped up and answered the call. It’s not just our U.S. Airmen, but our Republic of Korea Airmen as well.”

Participants conducted air operations around-the-clock and in real time, enabling senior leadership and commanders to make key decisions at the operational and strategic levels throughout the Pacific region.

“When you look at it it’s kind of like a choreography,” said Col. James Bortree, 607th Air and Space Operations Center director. “You have thousands of pieces that you bring together to give you that single effect or combination of effects that the senior leadership desires to achieve national objectives.”

The exercise’s name originates from the historical Korean military leader, Eulji Mundeok, who is known for repelling an attack by China’s Sui Dynasty in the 7th century. 

The exercise also entailed a visit from representatives of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission, who toured the 607th AOC to verify that operations were being conducted from a defense.