SOUTHWEST ASIA -- U.S. and Joint Coalition partners participated in the second bi-annual Spit Fire Games competing in various sporting events here June 23.
During the opening ceremony, participants including service members from the U.S. Air Force, the Royal Jordanian Air Force, the German Air Force, and the French Air Force gathered to kick-off the day.
“There’s nothing better than food and sports to bring Coalition forces together,” said Lt. Col. Jacqueline Sukhlall, 332nd Expeditionary Force Support Squadron commander. “Today’s going to be an awesome day and I want to thank you for coming out, bringing your team, your support and your spirit of camaraderie.”
During the games, teams participated in single elimination tournaments of basketball, soccer, and volleyball before concluding in a test of strength, endurance, power and sheer will via the classic contest that is Tug-of-War.
“I want to congratulate all of the athletes, and thank everybody for their participation today,” said Brig. Gen. Mark Slocum, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing commander. “Here, friendly competition, among coalition partners and allies is building the relationship that when we are together, shoulder-to-shoulder in a fight, we will be victorious.”
Upon the conclusion of the games, congratulations, smiles and laughter were apparent as stories of the games were retold amongst former competitors and supporters.
“This is a partnership and relationship that I have not seen anywhere else,” said Slocum. “This is phenomenal. The spirt we’re seeing is the beginning of what is going to lead to victory in the end. Congratulations to our winners in all of the events.”