Raven applicants refuse to quit in preparation to become one

(left) U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jalen Branch, 7th Reconnaissance Squadron internal security response member and Raven applicant, stationed at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, receives feedback from 86th Security Forces Ravens section members after participating in the “Redman” exercise, which simulated a physical altercation with a hostile individual on Ramstein Air Base, Jan. 16, 2020. During this exercise, the risk of sustaining an injury, such as a concussion, is high, but it’s purpose is important and well-intentioned for the participating applicant. It shows the Raven applicant how they personally respond to unbridled, violent behavior. Through mentorship and reflection they learn what they can do differently if they are left to defend themselves, or others, in an actual violent situation. The Ramstein Air Base Ravens pre-qualification course, instructed by the 86th Security Forces Ravens section, tests an applicant’s ability to endure extreme mental and physical strain in preparation for the 26-day Raven qualification course at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kristof J. Rixmann)