Kandahar Air Wing Conducts First Field Training Exercise Published July 19, 2010 By Capt Joe Bauer 738th Air Expeditionary Advisory Group KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- Disaster preparedness is something very familiar to U.S. Air Force personnel. Airmen practice emergency response over and over until it becomes second nature. Members of the Kandahar Air Wing conducted its first field training exercise July 11 at Kandahar Airfield, simulating a helicopter crash. The exercise tested first responders and their leaders' abilities to decisively act, command and control a crisis through its notification, response, and recovery phases. Ensuring the KAW's ability to survive and operate is a fundamental step towards creating an independently capable air wing. The exercise began with a simulated crash of an Mi-17 helicopter shortly after takeoff. Afghan security forces rushed to cordon the area while fire fighters battled the simulated "fire" near the helicopter. Medical crews quickly responded to the scene and evacuated casualties to a casualty collection point and treated the wounded. Command and control personnel assisted KAW leaders to properly direct efforts. During the exercise, members of the 738th Air Expeditionary Advisory Group evaluated, and where necessary, advised KAW personnel how to save lives, limit damage and restore operations. The exercise also had KAW personnel describe their contributions to recovery phase actions, such as notify higher headquarters, initiate safety investigations, address casualty affairs issues and respond to simulated media inquires. Mentors from the 738th AEAG, commanded by Col. Bernard Mater, work tirelessly with their Afghan counterparts to sharpen their warrior skills and capability to provide for the safety and security of Afghanistan. The exercise provided the perfect opportunity to highlight areas of successful training as well as point out areas for improvement. "All elements of the Kandahar Air Wing pulled together to effectively communicate and coordinate their actions to respond as a team during today's FTX. While many had never participated in this kind of exercise, I was particularly impressed with the sound judgment displayed by the security noncommissioned officers and the fire department's sense of urgency. The entire KAW team demonstrates daily that they are capable partners and their performance today advances the fight for freedom," Colonel Mater said.