MTL’s lead the fight against COVID-19 Published March 28, 2020 By Staff Sgt. Robert McIlrath 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Over the past few weeks, the Health Protection Condition level has changed due to COVID-19. Because of this change, some Air Force employees have been asked to work from home, or telework, for safety reasons. For military training leaders, teleworking isn’t a possibility. They still show up in person to guide and lead Airmen-in-Training. MTL’s are also responsible for ensuring the safety of Airmen, especially during this pandemic. Several strategies have been put in place to combat COVID-19. “We have them marching at a double arms length apart now,” said Tech. Sgt. Daryl Ackerman, 363rd Training Squadron MTL. “We practice social distancing at all times and even limit the number of people allowed in a room at one time.” Typically, each squadron hosts a GI party every Sunday, where Airman clean their rooms and the dormitory. “We now have GI parties twice a week and we sanitize everything,” Ackerman said. “We even stopped holding some of the less important briefings to minimize gatherings.” The MTL’s are working shorter hours to minimize exposure but still get the same amount of work done they do on normal hours. Team Sheppard appreciates all those who are doing their part to “flatten the curve” and beat COVID-19.