Exchange of ideas key to success of Cope Taufan 2012

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Matt Summers
  • Cope Taufan Public Affairs
PENANG, Malaysia --  While Cope Taufan 2012 may be billed as just a live-flying exercise between the U.S. Air Force and Royal Malaysian Air Force, but there's also quite of bit of knowledge being shared on the ground as well.

Chief Master Sgt. William Makaneole, Pacific Air Forces plans and programs action officer and 27-year security forces veteran, recently conducted a subject matter expert exchange with RMAF airmen from the Provost Squadron 104 at TUDM Butterworth. Makaneole, who's also a 15-year veteran of the Honolulu Police Department, talked to the RMAF airmen about tactical shooting, handcuff and search of a suspect, search team maneuvers and room clearing. He then provided them a chance to show off their newly acquired knowledge.

"They [RMAF airmen] were very energetic," said Makaneole, an activated Air National Guardsman with 154th Security Forces Squadron of the Hawaii National Guard. "This experience builds communication and builds partnerships."

RMAF Capt. Muhammad Syahlan Bin Shafie, 104 Provost Squadron operations officer, said the exchange provided valuable exposure to different tactics and techniques for his airmen.

"This is the first time for an exchange of this type for our squadron", said the former attorney. "We are very appreciative -- it will sharpen our skills and add to our knowledge.

"We have many more things we want to learn," he added. "We are looking forward to doing this again in the future."

Thirteenth Air Force conducts various subject matter expert exchanges throughout the Asia-Pacific region to include civil engineering and medical SMEEs in support of the U.S. Pacific commander's engagement efforts