SERE training now online, mandatory for all Airmen

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Patrick Hyde
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  While survival, evasion, resistance and escape training was previously mandatory for only a select few servicemembers, all Airmen are now required to complete online SERE training by June 30. 

SERE training teaches Airmen how to survive in harsh climates, evade enemy capture and endure imprisonment. 

Online SERE training also covers first aid buddy care and actions Airmen should take if they find themselves lost or separated from other military personnel, said Master Sgt. Jeannie Trichel, 39th Mission Support Squadron base training manager. 

Historically, SERE training was conducted in austere environments and reserved for crewmen, combat controllers, pararescuemen and various life support personnel. Airmen in these career fields will still attend the Department of Defense's Level C SERE Course and are exempt from the online training requirement 

Senior Airman Eric Tainter, 39th Contracting Squadron contracting specialist, said the training was very thorough and easy to accomplish. 

"The main focus was on the threat and psychological challenges of capture," he said. 

Airmen are required to complete online SERE training every 20 months to ensure alignment with required Air Expeditionary Force and Air Force training cycles. 

Because today's battlefields are non-linear, every Airman is in jeopardy of being captured and needs to know how to survive, said Gen. Michael Mosely, Air Force Chief of Staff. 

Technical sergeants, staff sergeants and senior airmen interested in becoming a DoD Level "C" SERE course instructor or wishing to learn more about SERE instructor requirements or duties may find the information at www.gosere.com.