U.S., Tonga military security forces conduct subject-matter expert exchange

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kerry Jackson
  • 13th Air Force Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii --  Security Forces experts from the 736th Security Forces Squadron at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and 13th Air Force here, conducted a subject matter expert exchange with the Tongan Defense Forces in Nuku'alofa, Kingdom of Tonga, Sept. 9 through 20.

The SMEE, which focused on tactical team combat maneuvers, allowed U.S. and Tongan forces to share force protection and security operations information and understanding among attendees. The goal of the exchange was to enhance regional partnerships and promote interoperability between U.S. forces and partner nations. The event is a direct result of a previous SMEE held in Guam in July between 13th AF, the 736th SFS, and members of the Tongan Defense Service.

"This Tonga and U.S. Security Forces SMEE was a tremendous success and a significant first, marking the first time a U.S. Air Force unit has gone to Tonga to conduct a major exchange and partnership-building event," said Francis "Frank" Deniz, the 13th Air Force Security Forces readiness officer who coordinated the SMEE. "This SMEE served as a forum to discuss security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region and allowed us to build relationships among the future leaders of regional security forces."

Six U.S. Air Force Security Forces experts and 33 Tonga Defense Forces personnel from the Army, Navy and Marines participated in the U.S. - Tonga SMEE. The participants shared information and conducted exercises pertaining to urban combat operations, tactical team movements, mounted and dismounted convoy operations, and discussed counterinsurgency operations.

"Our team of Security Forces experts came prepared to share a wealth of information with our Tongan counterparts," said Deniz. "We held joint discussions and conducted demonstrations that covered various aspects of anti-terrorism and force protection which were beneficial to all the participants."

In addition, the participants exchanged information and techniques on tactical weapons marksmanship and small unit leadership in combat operations. The participants also discussed current policies, tactics, techniques and procedures regarding their respective anti-terrorism programs.

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.