Sailors from Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW) met Jan. 28, 2011 for what is commonly called at NAS Whidbey Island as “OC Day.”

“OC,” or oleoresin capsicum, is a chemical compound known as pepper spray, which when sprayed into the eyes causes tears, pain and even temporary blindness.  Why would these Sailors subject themselves to pepper spray?

They are going through a three-week course that allows them to work in conjunction with the Security Department. Upon completion, they will become part of the base Auxiliary Security Force (ASF).

ASF is a dedicated group of volunteers who pledge themselves if disaster or a heightened security alert threatens the base. The training ranges from the rights and responsibilities of an arresting officer, mechanical advantage control holds, proper handcuffing skills, searching a suspect, shooting skills and a host of antiterrorism management skills. 

Sailors that volunteer for ASF provide assistance with watch standing. “ASF is an essential part of the overall security force team that when called upon provides a backup to the force if a major incident were to occur,” said Lt. Karla Bennett, Security Officer.

“OC training is a great experience,” said Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Airman Cheryl Laurin. “The training is something that will help ensure not only the safety of the base, but my personal safety as well.”

Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Robert Zvolensky agreed saying, “Although the experience was painful it showed us that the pain was something that we could fight through. It was definitely good training.”

FRCNW Sailors and base tenant commands continue to show the grit that makes up a team of finely-tuned shipmates that do their part to maintain not only the readiness of the base but also its safety.