Defenders teach, learn from NATO allies

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Lee A. Osberry Jr.
  • 48th Fighter Wing, Public Affairs
Bodø, Norway --  Airmen from the 48th Security Forces Squadron, teamed with the Norwegian Force Protection Office and Finnish Military Police to conduct a close-quarters battle training exercise Sept. 26, 2013 to practice readiness and response.

The event presented a unique opportunity for U.S. Air Force personnel to partner with their Norwegian and Finnish Air Force counterparts, on the final day of the Arctic Challenge Exercise 2013.

"The Norwegians wanted to conduct joint training in CQB, and with the worst-case scenario, an active-shooter," said 1st Lt. Richard Glover, 48th Security Forces Squadron detachment commander. "A lot of their soldiers were interested in learning about CQB and how to do things we do all the time."

Participants learned and executed various procedures including forming as a cohesive unit, searching and clearing buildings, securing hostages and defeating hostile personnel.

"[The] training will definitely suit me well; we don't get a chance often to train in this," said Royal Norwegian Air Force Pvt. Alexander Mauring, Force Protection Office security member. "It's good to be prepared, and if we keep practicing this, we will be well prepared."

While the U.S. led the training effort, they also learned new tactics along the way.

"We've learned their tactics and they've learned ours," said Airman 1st Class Carlos Chavarria, 48th Security Forces Squadron response force leader. "We know how to do things with them, so communication is better and we operate better together."

The final scenario saw two joint response teams tasked to secure a two-story complex, filled with hostages and enemy forces. U.S., Norwegian and Finnish personnel all participated and made for a successful event with many lessons learned.

"The experience has been even better than what I imagined," said Glover. "The Norwegians took us under their wing and it's refreshing to take a step back and see if we can do [things] better to protect the aircraft and the base."

The training and friendships developed in Norway created everlasting bonds and was a sentiment shared throughout the two weeks of ACE-13.

"It's been amazing working with the Americans," said Mauring. "Getting to know other people, and how other counties work as a team; it's given me an experience for a lifetime."