Wing leadership trains for fire fight

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sean Martin
  • 374 Airlift WIng Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Col. Mark Hicks, 374th Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Benjamin Caro, 374th AW command chief, trained with the base fire department here, April 20.

The 374th Civil Engineer Squadron and Fire Emergency Services Flight invited the Wing leadership to a live fire structural exercise focusing on challenges firefighters encounter during real world situations.

According to Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Riehle, Yokota's deputy fire chief, the day of training started with instruction on the Air Force Incident Management System and firefighter accountability, before hands-on training.

"Colonel Hicks and Chief Caro learned basic victim rescue and medical service procedures, fire suppression operations and withdrawal actions in the event of a structural collapse or firefighter injury," said Sergeant Riehle.

Firefighters are required to train using live fire at least twice a year, but here at Yokota training takes place regularly to ensure the highest level of proficiency.

As part of the training the commander and command chief were instructed on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).  This equipment includes the proximity suit, which is made to protect firefighters from direct contact of temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Although Yokota's Wing leadership had never taken part in a live fire exercise, Col. Hicks and Chief Caro jumped at the opportunity to don the proximity suit and fight a live fire.

"This was something that the commander told me he was doing and asked if I wanted to do it also," said Chief Caro. "I couldn't wait to get a first hand look at the hard work that our firefighters do and how they do it."

"Seeing what our young folks do and the training they have and how confident they are under stress is always impressive," said Col. Hicks. "It's great to see that we are prepared to do whatever we need to do to take care of the people here at Yokota, whether it's a fire in the towers or a crash on the runway."

After the training was complete, both Col. Hicks and Chief Caro said they had a better understanding and respect for firefighters.

"It was a great experience and I wish I could have gotten out here sooner," said Col. Hicks. "I would love for a chance to do it again."