Working through the heat to build relationships

by Staff Sgt. Clayton Lenhardt
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The 8th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department hosted Marines and Republic of Korea airmen during a joint training session conducted Mar. 18.

The training was a part of Exercise Foal Eagle and focused on scenarios simulating combined operations in emergency situations. Foal Eagle provides invaluable large-force employment training for U.S. and ROK military personnel.

"This training benefits joint operations here," said Master Sgt. Thomas Gervais, 8th CES assistant chief of operations. "Our interoperability and our ability to work together are integral to the success of the Wolf Pack mission."

The day started with training on ladders, ropes and knots. After lunch the firefighters moved out to the structural trainer, which allows them to do multiple building fire scenarios.

"We can do live fire training in it, we can do ladder training and we can do confined space training," said Gervais. "Also, any type of search and rescue training can be conducted at the structural trainer."

The advantages of practicing together were noted by Col. Carrie J. Bausano, 8th Mission Support Group commander.

"Oftentimes, we're going to be thrown into this mix when a contingency happens," said Bausano. "To have that practice before it actually comes about, will benefit us in the future."

Not only did the firefighters train together, they also shared a meal while experiencing other cultures.

"A lot of laughs were involved and a lot of stories were shared," said Marine Lance Cpl. Christian Alvarez, Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 firefighter. "Here, the Koreans are a lot older than us, they're passing on a lot of knowledge and a lot of experiences that they've been through during the years, and those are just great stories to be a part of."

Yi Son U, 8th CES firefighter, said he enjoyed working with Marines for the first time.

"I can learn about the Marines, Air Force and [American] culture," said Yi.

It doesn't matter what uniform is worn, what country the servicemember is part of, or what language is spoken, at the end of the day it comes down to one important thing: saving resources.

"Once you get over those barriers, it's the same language," said Bausano. "Put out the Fires, save the people, save the assets."