JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Pick a spot anywhere in the world and, chances are, The 437th Airlift Wing can get you there. From the airlift mobility to medical evacuations, the capabilities and reach are unsurpassed.
Additionally, the 437th AW reaches out to global partners here at home. Joint Base Charleston continues to host international military members for numerous training opportunities every year.
"Students come here to train with the best in the world," said George McDowell, Joint Base Charleston Wing Plans deputy. "Not only do the international students gain first hand knowledge of the C-17 Globemaster III, but they learn their job from some of the most skilled operators in the world."
In 2014, JB Charleston provided training to 328 students in a variety of courses including C-17 Simulator, C-17 Maintenance, Airframe and Structures, Avionics and others.
"International students are pre-screened and vetted through a variety of processes prior to coming to Charleston," said McDowell. "However, as a international military student, I work closely with security forces and the office of special investigations to ensure continual oversight and security throughout all training."
Where do all these students come from? Everywhere. In 2014 alone, students from Canada, The United Kingdom, France, Netherlands, Norway, Lithuania, Poland, Kuwait and India completed training at JB Charleston.
Charleston, nicknamed the Holy City, is a popular location for most foreign military students. In addition to the excellent training they receive, the students are able to experience American culture in one of the country's most popular travel destinations.
"The foreign students will become leaders in their respective military's," said McDowell. "Building and maintaining that relationship is more than a common courtesy, it's also vital to what we stand for."