JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA –
After being shut down for six months due to mechanical problems, the Aircraft Training Mock Up became operational and was used by the 628th Civil Engineer Squadron March 21, 2017.
The aircraft mock up conducts controlled aircraft live fire burns of onboard cargo as well as mounted and dismounted engine components to provide the most realistic scenarios possible. The training covers many of the real life situations these firefighters may encounter.
“This gives us a good opportunity to practice our procedure for putting out large frame aircraft fires,” said Glen Pilger, 628th CES lead firefighter. “Training like this gives us an understanding of our equipment and personal capabilities.”
The aircraft mock up is available for use by other agencies as well. It provides base and local firefighters with additional experience in a controlled environment.
“The Boeing Fire Department will be out here throughout the week,” said Pilger. “Because we have a mutual-aid agreement with Boeing, we practice to create a better working relationship, which helps during a large scale crash or other real life emergency situations.”
In addition to implementing emergency procedures and equipment familiarization, the training also serves as a team building opportunity.
“I learned the vital importance of working with the other members of my team,” said Senior Airman Andrew Yole, 628th CES firefighter. “It was a great opportunity to hone our capabilities during the training today.”