U.S., host nation deployed forces train side-by-side

Published July 31, 2013
By Master Sgt. Candace Davis
64th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Eight members from the 64th Air Expeditionary Group traveled to a local airport's security compound for integration training with 19 officers and enlisted members of the host nation's air forces July 8.

These Airmen were comprised of medics, explosive ordinance disposal technicians and security forces. Host nation members received hands on awareness training on improvised explosive device detection, self-aid buddy care and entry control point procedures. Not only do these sessions provide the local military with a new perspective, they also build a unique partnership with host nation personnel.

EOD provided insight on basic IED component recognition and vehicle search techniques.

"[Host nation military] members are eager to learn and working with them has been great," said Staff Sgt. Kyle Brown, a 64th Expeditionary Support Squadron EOD technician deployed from Moody Air Force Base, Ga. "It is awesome to build working relationships with our allies."

The local military members were placed in a practical scenario and had the opportunity to hone their skills and apply the tools they had just witnessed.

"Watching the [locals] over the past few days of interaction was amazing," said Staff Sgt. Ryan Prince, a 64th ESS EOD technician also deployed from Moody AFB. "They were very receptive and engaged with the training we offered. I look forward to the continued interaction with our Saudi partners."

Tech. Sgts. Layla Gregory and Ashley Guerrero taught medical scenarios. They covered airway management, bleeding control and basic transport techniques.

"Despite the language barrier, the Saudi troops caught on quickly and were very enthusiastic," Gregory said.

Gregory is the 64th ESS medical liaison flight chief deployed from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., and Guerrero is the 64th ESS medical liaison NCO in charge deployed from Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

While explaining entry control operations, Tech. Sgt. Josh Derezotes introduced different barrier systems and covered their capabilities when employed at entry control points and search areas.

"[The local military] members also provided our security forces insight into the techniques they utilize at checkpoints," said Senior Airman Luis Dominguez, a 64th ESFS operations member deployed from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. "Although their tactics are different from ours, they are very effective. The [host nation] showed great interest in developing final protective lines of defense and displayed a high sense of motivation during practical exercise scenarios."

A host nation brigadier general hosted a formal recognition ceremony with a traditional local meal after the training. The general expressed immense appreciation and hopes to conduct further joint integration training in the future.

"We want to learn from each other," said Chief Master Sgt. Rodney Gaither, the 64th AEG superintendent. "Being able to sit down and talk about different tactics and drills has been good for both sides. Anytime two militaries get together like this there are phenomenal mutual gains."

Being able to role play and exercise in a different country with a different culture and language is a valuable lesson for the team to take home, the chief added.

"This has been by far the highlight of my deployment," said Staff Sgt. Jamaal Sanders, a 64th ESFS operations member deployed from Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. "Not only were experiences and tactics shared, but also a bond was established during these four days. I have established new friendships and hope to see this training continue in the future."