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380AEW Article

Eglin AFB Airman, Tennessee native, prepared to fight fire in Southwest Asia

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Julie Briden-Garcia
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Airman 1st Class Robert McCallon is an Air Force firefighter deployed to support the 380th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron in Southwest Asia.

As an active duty firefighter, Airman McCallon protects people, property, and the environment from fires and disasters. In this deployed location, the Airman contributes to the base's fire prevention, fire fighting, rescue and hazardous material responses.

Airmen in the Air Force firefighting career field train daily to maintain their fire protection equipment and perfect their specialized skills. These heroes-in-training also provide guidance to military members on how to prevent fires, while upholding and enforcing health and safety in the work place.

Protecting the various aircraft and equipment from heat and fire damage is a large portion of firefighting in Southwest Asia, and this Airman is efficient in controlling and putting out aircraft, structure or other miscellaneous fires.

The 26-year-old Murfreesboro, Tennessee, native says he is enjoying his first deployment experience, knowing one of the most important features of his deployed job is the ability to save lives.

"Being deployed is everything I thought it would be and more. I enjoy supporting the mission each and every day. I also appreciate all the care packages from the USO that the fire department receives on a monthly basis."

Airman McCallon realized early on in his enlistment that he possesses a strong desire to serve his country and protect his loved ones.

"Since joining [the Air Force in] April 2009, I have learned a lot and met a lot of people who have given me valuable information, which is only going to help me as I progress in my Air Force career."

The 380th ECES is a subordinate unit of the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing. The wing is home to the KC-10 Extender, U-2 Dragon Lady, E-3 Sentry, F-15 Eagle, and RQ-4A/B Global Hawk aircraft. The 380th AEW mission supports Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, New Dawn, and the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa.