AL DHAFRA AIR BASE, United Arab Emirates -- Screaming and shouting could be heard coming from Fire Station 2. Upon closer examination, it would appear as if the firefighters were conducting training or holding a competition with each other, but it wasn’t firefighters.
Instead, it was 380th Air Expeditionary Wing members, who participated in the Fire Muster skill competition, Oct. 7, Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. This event allowed two-person teams to compete in five challenges to experience the fire fighter experience.
“The fire muster is a traditional fire fighter event we hold every year back home, which typically kicks off our fire prevention week campaign,” said Staff Sgt. Davis Kelly, 380th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron.
Each team was timed while competing in various physically demanding events; including bucket brigade, equipment carry, 250 pound dummy drag, tire flips, ladder climb, hose advancement and fire attack.
“This was my first time doing anything like this and I really enjoyed it,” said Airman 1st Class Christopher Swanson, 380th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “I came out because my partner is a firefighter and I went out to be a firefighter in 2008. I expected this to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. It was challenging, but not too tough. It was a nice balance and a lot of fun.”
“I always enjoy a physical, endurance challenge, so naturally I wanted to do this,” said Tech. Sgt. Alexander Bombita, 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron. “I feel good, it was a little bit challenging but overall not too bad and it taught me a few things to work on. Putting the water through that small opening was probably the most difficult and you had to be real technical with your approach.”
The winning team receiving two $25 gift cards from the BX, a shirt, patches and a coin from the firefighter department.
“We’re reaching out to the ADAB community to show them what we do, understand how we fight fires and the level of strength and endurance required to get the job done, while ultimately having a good time,” said Kelly.
Being a firefighter requires being able to perform physically challenging activities, but through those challenges team bonds can form.
“This event builds comradery with people from different units you never would have meet on a day-to-day basis and it challenges your physical capabilities,” said Bombita. “You can learn where you need to physically improve and what your own weaknesses are. It changes it up from just going to the gym every day.”