LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
U.S. Air Force firefighters from the 633rd Civil Engineer Squadron shared working knowledge on methods of combating fires to Netherlands Royal Air Force Sgt. Maj. Rene Van Noordeme at Langley Air Force Base, Va., April 23.
Noordeme is currently assigned to NATO Headquarters in Norfolk. Throughout his two and a half year assignment, Noordeme traveled the Hampton Roads area to tour various fire department facilities.
Noordeme toured the Langley AFB facility, where he studied vehicle features and watched Airmen don fire protection gear. Airmen also demonstrated a simulated downed-aircraft response to an aircraft fuel-pit fire using a mock metal airplane frame.
"For so long I wanted the opportunity to observe and train with the U.S. Air Force to help extend [Netherlands Royal Air Force] capabilities," said Noordeme. "It can be difficult to rely on literature for knowledge. This hands-on training the 633rd provided me is invaluable."
International partnerships allow forces from around the globe prepare for emergencies and support contingency operations.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dennis Scott, 633rd CES crew chief, said partnerships allow firefighters to share specific fire procedures, analyze best practices and hone their skills.
"We are all fire fighters achieving a common goal or mission," said Scott. "The possibility is there to operate alongside Sgt. Maj. Van Noordeme or any other firefighter from another country."
Through partnerships, the firefighters fostered relationships and learned skills they can use to increase their capabilities in the future, said Noordeme.