Tuesday, July 2, 2013

US Marine,Canadian RAF Firefighters Train Together

US Marine Corps Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Specialists trained with their Canadian Royal Air Force counterparts at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake,Alberta in Exercise Maple Flag 46.The annual Canadian RAF multinational air combat exercise provides Coalition forces the opportunity to learn how to work together and share best practices.
The Marine specialists assisted the Canadian RAF in fuel delivery and quality assurance,as well as supply,administration,communications and flightline support.Maple Flag 46 ran from 27 May to 21 June,2013.
In the course of the training,Marine and Canadian RAF personnel fought simulated aircraft and structure fires.The Marines were also on standby for any actual emergencies that might occur at Cold Lake.
Marine ARRF Sergeant Brad Alexander contrasted the Marine and Canadian RAF methods.While the Marines focus on speed and reaction time,they benefited from the Canadians' measured strategy.The Canadians don't run anywhere,but they move with a purpose.They get the mission done and they don't waste any time.They step back,look at the big picture,assess the situation and how to attack it
Sharing a crash barn,or fire staion,with the Canadians has been nothing but a positive experience,Sgt.Alexander said.
It was a valuable experience working with another country.The blending of strategies contributes to mission success.
Aircraft rescue and firefighting involves the response,hazard mitigation,evacuation and rescue of air crew and passengers in an air base ground emergency.There cannot be air combat without such support operations.

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