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Initial Quick Reaction Force Training Graduation

  • Published
  • By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Jared E. Walker
  • 438th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
KABUL, Afghanistan --  Twenty-five members of the Afghan Air Force, consisting of airmen through captain, graduated from the initial quick reaction force training course at the Afghan Air Force base at Kabul, Afghanistan, March 5.

Tech. Sgt. Sandra Dean, the 439 Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron security forces advisor said that the security training for them was 68 hours and consisted of lectures, demonstrations and physical participation.

She also explained the steps the security force students had to take to graduate.

"They had to attend multiple classes where they learned lessons on tactics, patrolling, combat casualty care, combative training, IED recognition and response. They also had to learn to demonstrate the ability to accomplish these skills during a validation exercise," said Sergeant Dean.

Sergeant Dean said this course is important to the Afghan Air Force growth because it and others like it are the corner stone to prepare the Afghan Air Force security forces to defend their nation. She said that it also gives them the skills needed to teach future security force members.

"This course also helps Afghanistan because it provides the nation of Afghanistan more personnel that are able to respond to hostile incidents, but also reconfirms to the Afghan people their nations' ability to defend itself," said Sergeant Dean.

Also stressing the importance of the graduation was Colonel Zalmi Amiry, the Mission Support Brigade commander at the Afghan Air Force base.

"The lessons that you learned are very important. Thanks to the advisers for the lessons they taught you. In my opinion, the best soldier is the one who implements the rules and regulations they have learned from the advisors," said Colonel Amiry.

Sergeant Dean said she was very impressed by the progression of the security forces.

"I have watched these men go from raw security forces member to professional quick reaction force leaders and members. I have full faith they will use these skills in the protection of Afghanistan and her people," Sergeant Dean said .