ORI...why? Published June 10, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Josef Cole 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The Operational Readiness Inspection is fast approaching and the 20th Fighter Wing is focused on performing well. But what exactly is operational readiness? And why is the inspection of it a monumental event for Shaw? Operational readiness, as defined by the 20th FW Plans and Inspections Chief, Lt. Col. Jeff Nedrow, is "the ability to generate combat-ready aircraft, meet and engage targets and return home safely." The definition is a difficult task in its own right, he said. And the wing must accomplish this while demonstrating the ability to survive and operate, more commonly known as ATSO, in a chemical, biological or radioactive environment. The ORI will be an all out race to the finish, pushing the base to the limits of performance, a fact emphasized by Colonel Nedrow. "This truly is the only time we can test ourselves at such a high level," he said. Now the reason for inspection comes into focus: Testing and evaluation determine whether or not Shaw is capable of its creed to fly, fight and win against "Any Challenge, Any Time, Anywhere." Proving that the base is capable of performing its mission provides precious peace of mind to American citizens and a serious deterrent to enemy forces. Colonel Nedrow and the wing inspections office have focused their efforts on preparing Team Shaw for the Phase II ORI, which will evaluate Shaw's ability to perform its wartime mission, and consists of employment, mission support and ATSO play. Colonel Nedrow said, "Once the ORI hits, wing inspection's job is done." This means even after the 20th FW crosses the ORI finish line, the wing's Airmen will each be responsible for the ultimate grade earned. So in addition to extensive training what does the population of Base X need to remember during the ORI to succeed? Senior Master Sgt. David Fish, the superintendent of the sustainment services flight of the 20th Force Support Squadron, thought it important to note, "Get rid of the stage fright -- known as pre-ORI jitters -- early on so you can focus on performing." A few more tips from Sergeant Fish are focusing on teamwork, communication and attention to detail, with real world examples of ensuring good turn-over at shift change and keeping a detailed event log. Final reminders and wisdom come from Chief Master Sgt. Phillip Robinson, wing propulsion systems manager of the 20th Component Maintenance Squadron. "It is important for Airmen to understand why we exercise and evaluate, which is to set them up for success when they deploy, and all the tools learned now will be used again." Chief Robinson's tips include proper attitude, "positive" focused work, otherwise known as "sense of urgency," and "living with your Airman's Manual." In 2002, our ORI Phase II rating was outstanding. As 20th FW Commander Col. Gus Guastella has said, with all of our training and positive attitudes, Team Shaw will again prove that the 20th FW is ready for anything and we are the tip of the spear when it comes to combat readiness.