KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 18th Civil Engineer Squadron hosted hands-on fire training with local firefighters from various cities in Okinawa August 14, 2017.

“We conducted hands-on training on an F-15 to demonstrate the egress procedures, discussed the hazards associated with the aircraft, and showed a demo on what we would do on an emergency response,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Billy Parham, 18th CES, assistant chief of training.

The training was a crucial step in preparedness and readiness for the local firefighters in the case of an emergency. Depending on the location of an emergency, local firefighters will be the first to respond.

According to Parham, this training is important for the locals as well to know how to handle emergencies with either our aircraft, or the Japan Self-Defense Force aircraft.

“They have completely different missions than what we have,” said Parham. “Our primary focus is on aircraft and then secondary is structural, where their mission is primarily structural. It’s great for them to come in and see the aircraft, learn the hazards on the aircraft, and then, if anything happens in their district with one of our aircraft, they’re prepared to handle it.”

The training conducted is in line with the mandated yearly training by the United States Forces Japan agreement, and the host site rotates between the different branches on the island.

“The training happens yearly, it alternates between who takes the lead,” said U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Jesse O’Connor, 18th CES, readiness and emergency management flight commander. “It’s one of a four-part requirement. There’s a hands-on, two table-tops, and a field training exercise.”

The training is an opportunity to help members from the 18th CES understand more about the different equipment used by the local firefighters, as well as helping break down the language barrier.

“Our stuff is not compatible with theirs when it comes to fire apparatuses, so they get to see what we have and we get to see what they have so that we can put it together,” said Parham. “It opens the doors to the Japanese and shows we do care about our impact here.”

Training together makes a positive impact on the local community and Kadena. By teaching Okinawan firefighters how Team Kadena’s firefighters operate, members of the 18th CES help keep Team Kadena and Okinawa safe, secure, and prepared for any emergency.