57th Rescue Squadron trains alongside Swedish Air Force

Photo By Staff Sgt. Douglas Lorance | U.S Airmen assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron teamed with Swedish Air Force Rangers to execute an integrated Arctic Partnership Recovery exercise, at Vidsel Air Base, Sweden, Feb. 25- March 2. Approximately 20 pararescue members from the 57th RQS and 12 Swedish Air Force Rangers participated side-by-side during this full-scale exercise. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)  

VIDSEL AIR BASE, SWEDEN

03.02.2023

Story by Staff Sgt. Douglas Lorance 

31st Fighter Wing

U.S Airmen assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron teamed with Swedish Air Force Rangers to execute an integrated Arctic Partnership Recovery exercise, at Vidsel Air Base, Sweden, Feb. 25- March 2.
Approximately 20 pararescue members from the 57th RQS and 12 Swedish Air Force Rangers participated side-by-side during this full-scale exercise.
The exercise was an opportunity to practice cooperative cold weather survival skills and Arctic personnel recovery training between partner nations in an Artic environment.
“The unique aspect of this training was the cold,” said Master Sgt. William Cenna, 57th RQS department of exercises superintendent. “Every day was below freezing, with variable amounts of snow. Learning to operate in this climate broadened our medical and patient transportation capabilities.”
The training included Arctic survival, winter tactical patrolling, patient packaging, movement and treatment, hypothermia recovery, snow mobile operation, ski mobility, winter shelter construction and other military-focused tasks. A full-scale start-to-finish recovery mission was the culminating event.
“Taking the time to integrate with partners and having the opportunity to exchange a wealth of knowledge and experience from both nations allows for real-world interoperability that is invaluable,” said Master Sgt. Justin Covieo, 57th RQS, plans and exercise flight chief.
While this was the first full-scale personnel recovery exercise, it was just one step in a growing partnership that has resulted real world impacts. Prior to Arctic training, the Swedish rangers visited Aviano Air Base, Italy, to train with the 57 RQS in Confined Space, Collapsed Structure and Extrication training. This training was put to the test when the Swedish Army Rangers responded to the earthquakes in Turkey.
“These training events have long-lasting, real-world impacts for not only us, but for our partner nations,” said Cenna. “It’s really about getting the mission done and making the team better, both our team and our partners.”
Both organizations plan to continue training together in preparation for a greater understanding of Arctic operations and all it encompasses.

• Date Taken: 03.02.2023
• Date Posted: 03.23.2023 10:51
• Story ID: 440844
• Location: VIDSEL AIR BASE, SE