Wolf Pack responds to simulated aircraft accident

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jessica Hines
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Airmen here were tested by emergency management inspectors, March 14, during a simulated aircraft accident on base.

The exercise kicked off at approximately 9 a.m. with loud explosions near the 8th Fighter Wing headquarters building. Airmen quickly alerted emergency responders and started assisting victims.

As part of the exercise, the pilot of the aircraft had successfully ejected from the simulated crash but was found several yards away with injuries sustained from an erratic parachute landing.

Inspectors watched and waited as they evaluated Airmen's ability to take the necessary steps to safely and quickly respond to the incident.

"We were looking to see how Wolf Pack would react in those crucial first few minutes," said Master Sgt. Christopher Sleeper, 8th Civil Engineer Squadron deputy fire chief. "We were impressed with the immediate response of bystanders in the area on how they put the needs of their brothers and sisters ahead of their own lives and safety."

The deputy fire chief also noted how well Airmen personified the Airman's Creed of "I will never leave an Airman behind."

Aside from alerting first responders, Airmen were also tested on their ability to assist victims and provide basic life-saving techniques learned from self-aid and buddy care training.

"All Airmen - not just first responders -- should be able to face any situation, particularly an emergency situation, and react accordingly so they can help and assist before those emergency personnel arrive," said Chief Master Sgt. Achim Prosser, 8th FW plans and inspections section chief.

"It's about saving lives, securing the scene, and protecting critical information, which as service members we all have a part in," he added.

As the Wolf Pack prepares for its official combined unit inspection in April, last minute exercises help to iron out any discrepancies and ensure all Airmen are prepared to showcase their capabilities to inspectors.

"If Wolf Pack Airmen can continue to display the same exceptional attitudes and sense of urgency that we saw during the EME, I'm confident that we will be successful in our inspection come April," said Sleeper.