Firefighters ensure aircrews get out alive when things go awry Published Feb. 7, 2008 By Senior Airman Megan Lyon 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Flashing lights fill the night as base firefighters scramble up ladders to rescue an unconscious pilot in the cockpit of an F-15E Strike Eagle. Flanking the front of the aircraft, fire trucks provide protective cover in the event of a fire. The crew manages to shut the aircraft down and extract the pilot all in a matter of seconds. The carefully orchestrated actions result in a successful aircrew extraction during Phase II of Exercise Sharpshooter 08-03, Feb. 6. "We have the Airmen set up two hand lines on both sides of the aircraft during the rescue," said Master Sgt. Charles Harrison, 366th Civil Engineer Squadron fire and emergency services flight exercise examination team member. "This creates a safe zone in case of an engine fire, fuel spill or any other obstacle preventing them gaining access to the aircraft." For firefighters from the 366th CES, it's just another test of their abilities to perform life-saving procedures under pressure. Throughout Exercise Sharpshooter 08-03, firefighters responded to numerous aircrew extraction scenarios in preparation for the wing's operational readiness inspection in March 2008. Rescue teams must complete objectives - specifically the safe extraction of all aircrew - within 60 seconds to receive a grade of outstanding for time requirements during the ORI. "With each successive practice run we shave off seconds needed to potentially get the pilot and aircrew to safety," said Sergeant Harrison. During an aircraft extraction scenario, firefighters are also graded on their command and control procedures; proper aircraft entry and shutdown; knowledge and proper use of equipment; rescue operations; sense of urgency, teamwork and completion of objectives; vehicle capabilities; and the ability to maintain a five-minute supply of aqueous film forming foam, or AFFF, and water. To receive an overall rating of outstanding for the scenario, rescue crews must receive an outstanding on at least four graded requirements and at least an excellent on the remaining requirements. For the firefighters, the exercise grade pales in comparison to the job they do. "The rescue team is a pivotal part of the 366th Fighter Wing's mission," said Stephen Elliott, 366th CES fire and emergency services flight acting assistant fire department chief. "Our pilots appreciate knowing that if anything goes wrong, we're there to make sure the situation ends on a positive and safe note."