CAZAUX AIR FORCE BASE, France -- U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 56th and 57th Rescue Squadrons are participating in Exercise Salamander here through Nov. 18.
Two HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters assigned to the 56th Rescue Squadron and approximately 100 Airmen are involved in the joint training exercise with French air force members and helicopters.
Lt. Col. Bernard Smith, 56th RQS commander, said, "Exercise Salamander is an amazing opportunity for our HH-60G aircrew, Guardian Angel teams and maintenance Airmen to hone their skills in a dynamic environment as we prepare for future combat operations."
He also highlighted how the exercise allows U.S. forces to bolster relationships and interoperability with our international partners.
"Through strengthened relationships and engagements with our allies, we demonstrate our shared commitment to a peaceful, stable and secure Europe," he said. "We are America's forward presence, postured alongside our proven, indispensable allies."
Pararescuemen from the 57th RQS also had the opportunity to fly with the French Air Force in EC-725 Caracal helicopters, assigned to the 1/67 Pyrénées Squadron.
"Throughout the exercise it has been no surprise the level of skill and dedication our French brothers and sisters have demonstrated," Smith said. "From simulating the recovery of an isolated person in a contested combat environment with the 1/67 Squadron to working with the French Commando team from the CPA [Commando parachutiste de l'air] 30 squadron during night water rescue training, the exercise has been a resounding success."