AES ready to illuminate at Medlite '08

19 Nov 2008 | Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle

The 446th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron is planning to send six people to the Medlite 2008 exercise in Tunisia, Africa, Nov. 7-10. 

Medlite is a Joint-Force field training exercise run by Air Force Reserve Command. The purpose is for U.S. Armed Forces medical personnel to train Tunisian Air Force medical personnel in disciplines focusing on aeromedical evacuations and chemical warfare training, also known as CBRNE. 

"The exercise is important because it is an opportunity for the U.S. and Tunisians to train together," said Senior Master Sgt. A.J. Wilds, superintendent of aeromedical operations with the 446th AES. 

"How it works is that the Tunisians send out a list of what type of training they need and (Air Force Reserve Command) sends out an Air Force-wide letter to potential applicants who have that type of expertise," said Master Sgt. Dave Allen, NCO in charge of operations training. "We then send down the people and equipment to the exercise."
Medlite isn't new for the 446th AES. 

"AES has had people participating in Medlite since 2003," said Sergeant Wilds. 

Despite this fact, AES still sends new faces each year. 

"This is my first time participating," said Capt. Joe Foss, a flight nurse with 446th AES. "I've heard that Medlite was a real positive experience and the Tunisians are very gracious hosts. It's a unique exercise in the fact that we are training foreign military in their country as guests and teachers." 

According to Captain Foss, Medlite provides visibility for the 446th AW and a rare opportunity to teach rather than do. 

"It's good to have representation from the 446th Airlift Wing in this exercise, because it's high-profile and we can make our mark," said Captain Foss. "It's also different for AES because we are used to flying. However, we get to flex our teaching muscles for this." 

Good rapport between other countries' forces can be maintained through these exercises. 

"It's a chance for the U.S. medical forces to promote good will and a good relationship with our allies in North Africa," said Captain Foss. "Anytime you train people to take care of the sick and injured, it's a pretty positive thing."