Explosive ordnance disposal, medical emergency responders and firefighters combine their skills to respond to several emergencies or the same emergency within a matter of minutes. Their Kyrgyzstan counterparts were invited to the base to see the equipment vital to the Americans’ success and learn how Kyrgyzstan can improve their own abilities to respond.

“We try to do this each rotation so we can meet them and increase our capabilities as a unified team,” said Tech. Sgt. Gary Clavin assigned to the 376th AEW fire department.

The day included a tour of base facilities and a barbecue at the fire station Col. Shamil Hilaneu, the head of rescue services for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

“The most interesting for me was seeing the equipment, meeting the Airmen on base and the time and effort everyone took to explain to us what the base is about during our tour," said visiting Col. Shamil Hilaneu, the head of rescue services for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Sergeant Clavin said another important reason behind this visit is to strengthen the bonds between the two countries.

“It’s important to meet with them and get to know them so we know who we’re working with in case we need to work together in a combined effort during an emergency either on base or downtown in their district,” said Sergeant Clavin, deployed from McConnell Air Force Base, Kan.

Each rotation of Airmen tries to set up a day at least once where the teams can meet and improve each other’s capabilities. Many times the U.S. will travel off-base to the Kyrgyz facilities, where it’s the local team’s chance to show what they can do. By knowing each other’s capabilities, both teams gain valuable knowledge that better prepares them for any emergency they may encounter.