61st Joint Chemical Training

Photo By Spc. Matthew H. Oda | Spc. Amanda K. Schinkel, Chemical operations specialist, Recon Platoon, 61st Chemical Company 115th Fires Brigade, attaches an oxygen hose to the protective mask of a chemical defense unit member of the Kuwait national guard at camp Tarheer, Kuwait, Nov. 18. Shelton is from Colorado Springs, Colo., her unit is stationed at Ft. Lewis Wash., and deployed to Kuwait.  

11.18.2009

Story by Spc. Matthew H. Oda 

Joint Force Headquarters - Wyoming National Guard

CAMP TARHEER, Kuwait - The 61st Chemical Company Reconnaissance Platoon conducted a joint forces training operation with the Kuwait national guard, Nov. 18, at Camp Tarheer, Kuwait.

The 61st set up a decontamination site to train the Kuwaitis for dismounted reconnaissance, as well as HAZMAT scenarios to practice proper reaction to the incident.

"When we come down to train with the Kuwaitis, we want to make sure they are as prepared and equipped as they can be for any situation or incident that may occur," said Sgt. Joseph McBride, NCO in charge of the training. "What we do is walk them through each step of the process. They learn how to use the equipment to detect the chemicals in the area and how to take samples. We also made sure they know all the necessary steps and procedures to protect themselves and their country in case a situation should occur," he added.

The Soldiers and Kuwaitis were briefed on the training scenario, and then they put on the suits and entered the contaminated area to collect samples to bring back and get analyzed for a better understanding of the situation. Once that team came back, the Decontamination Team was ready with different stations to decontaminate the first team.

"Every step of the way, we were showing them new things that they never knew before. We made sure they understood why they did what they did, and how to do it so they properly protect themselves," said McBride.

Not only did the 61st share their knowledge of different types of training to the Kuwaitis, but they also shared their equipment as well.

"We got to put on the U.S Army suits which are different from the suits we use," said Pvt. Hammed Asi, a chemical Soldier for the Kuwait national guard. "Actually, the suits are not that comfortable but this is what you have to do and you have to be tough to do it so we didn't mind," he added.

Teamwork has a vital role when working together with another military force in order to have a successful mission.

"What I liked about the training the most is the teamwork," said Asi. "We split up into different teams and each member of the team would help each other out. In the end all teams would submit their work together and that felt like such good teamwork," he finished.

• Date Taken: 11.18.2009
• Date Posted: 02.08.2010 02:34
• Story ID: 45067