A post-attack reconnaissance team member confirms unexploded ordnance to his unit control center during alarm black. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Ciara Wymbs)

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An Airman confirms the time and date of an unexploded ordinance on a reporting chart after setting up a cordon around the UXO. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Stephenie Wade)

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After confirming a simulated unexploded ordnance, an Airman coordinates a cordon using orange cones to control the area and warn others of the UXO. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Amanda Grabiec)

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The Airman's Manual -- a lifesaving tool

Published Dec. 5, 2010
By Senior Airman Brandon Davis
8th Civil Engineer Squadron

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- So there I was ...

The giant voiced announced, "Alarm Black, General Release."

I prepared my team, grabbed my Airman's Manual, AFMAN 10-100, and headed out to do my post-attack reconnaissance sweep.

After checking the front side of my building, I made the turn to the side and there it was - a massive unexploded explosive ordnance in my path.

I quickly grabbed my Airman's Manual and began searching for UXO procedures. Clearly marked on page 2 of the Critical Information Checklist section was the exact answer I was looking for. I followed the correct procedures:

- Confirm
- Clear
- Cordon
- Check
- Control

I was able to identify and report the UXO, cordon off the area and move my team to safety. Thank you Airman's Manual!