YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 374th Security Forces Squadron hosted their first Weapons Handling Skills and Tactics course, Aug. 31, 2018, at Yokota Air Base.

Approximately 30 Airmen participated in the course, learning the valuable skills needed during a real-world scenario.

“We want to enhance defense capabilities, promote teamwork, and give our Airmen a head start on expeditionary operations as well as familiarize our warriors with weapon systems they may have to operate in a wartime situation,” said Staff Sgt. Don Sandidge, 374th SFS combat arms instructor.

During the two hour-long course, Airmen go over weapon safety, carrying positions, shoot, move and communicate techniques, firing positions, transitions between M4 & M9, reloads, and cover fire.

“It’s important for all Airmen, regardless of their career, to understand small unit tactics, basic weapon handling procedures, and working as a fire team to counter any real-world threat,” said Sandidge.

The course is scheduled to be taught three times a month.

Unit training managers are notified the month prior of class dates for this course and allotted a certain amount of slots. Please go through your UTM/UDM to sign up for the class.