Operation Enduring Freedom

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Kandahar Air Wing firefighters suppress a fire by attacking the thermal layer before entering the structure as part of live structural interior fire training at KAW March 28. The live interior burns were a first for KAW and represented a milestone in their firefighting capabilities. (U.S. Air Force Courtesy Photo).

KAW fire department conducts live burn training

Published March 29, 2011
By Master Sgt. Jason Berry
738 Air Expeditionary Squadron

Kandahar, Afghanistan -- Kandahar Air Wing firefighters successfully completed live structural interior fire training at KAW March 28. The live interior burns were a first for KAW and represented a milestone in their firefighting capabilities.

Training focused on basic fire theory, practicing various forms of direct and indirect fire control tactics and hydraulic ventilation. Fifteen evolutions of the training were conducted over two hours, bringing a month's worth of preparatory classes to fruition for the student firemen.

"Today's training was a huge step in building the confidence level of KAW Firefighters in performing their duties," said Master Sgt. Jason Berry, a firefighting advisor with NATO Air Training Command-Afghanistan.

"Additionally, participation of the various fire agencies embodied the true spirit of multi-national firefighting capability and will pay dividends for future partnering efforts," he added.