Female lieutenants join Afghan Air Force for English immersion, pilot training

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.12.2010

Courtesy Story

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Five recent graduates from the first Afghan National Army female officer candidate school reported to the Afghan Air Force for further training, Oct. 12.

The female lieutenants reported to the AAF School Pohantoon-e-Hawayee and the Thunder Lab, an English immersion center.

The English language immersion program is designed to prepare the “future eagles” of the AAF awaiting pilot training. The program includes a total immersion program in English, along with aviation and professional skills.

While at the Thunder Lab, the female and male lieutenants will compete on equal terms. Additionally, the male and female officers will train shoulder-to-shoulder with their advisors, but will have segregated living quarters.

“They were all extremely professional, motivated and their English is fantastic. My sense is that these women will serve as an inspiration for other potential female officers, as well as keep the male lieutenants at the top of their game,” said U.S. Lt. Col. John Howard, lead advisor for the Thunder Lab.

A typical day for the new lieutenants at the Thunder Lab begins early with physical fitness at 5:15 a.m. After breakfast, students receive three hours of English training or Air Force training. The afternoon is filled with aviation English instruction, followed by military and professional training with an American mentor for two hours. Following prayer and dinner, there is time for the simulator, study, and an evening movie.

“I am excited to be here. It is my big wish, my big dream to join the air force,” said 2nd Lt. Mary. “First, I want to be a good pilot -- after that an engineer.”

• Date Taken: 10.12.2010
• Date Posted: 10.12.2010 10:56
• Story ID: 57948
• Location: KABUL, AF