Air Force leaders appreciate, honor Iraqi firefighters

Photo By Staff Sgt. Eunique Stevens | Ten Kirkuk firefighters, assigned to the city's unexploded ordnance, or UXO, facility wait to be recognized at a ceremony here May 31. During the ceremony the firefighters received certificates of appreciation for their "outstanding support" to the 506th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight and Weapons Intelligence Team 11 mission.  

KIRKUK, IRAQ

06.02.2009

Courtesy Story

506th Air Expeditionary Group

Ten Kirkuk firefighters assigned to the city's unexploded ordnance, or UXO, facility received certificates of appreciation for their "outstanding support" to the 506th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight and Weapons Intelligence Team 11 mission, and words of honor from the U.S. base commander, at a ceremony Sunday.

Coalition forces EOD technicians are training Iraqi firefighters charged with the responsibility of identifying and handling UXOs on what to look for, how to handle what they find, reporting procedures, and when to just call for help.

"We're recognizing them for the job that they do," said Capt. Jennifer Davenport, 506th EOD commander. "They do a good job. These guys are from [Kirkuk]; they have a sense of ownership. They're dedicated to keeping this area safe.

"Being EOD ... , we understand the risks," Davenport said. "Honestly, we feel a kinship to these guys."

"[These firefighters] risk their lives every day working to create a safe province for their families, fellow citizens and coalition forces," Davenport said during her speech. "They have saved countless lives."

"Each week they recover hundreds of rounds, eliminating the explosive hazard and taking these rounds out of the hands of terrorists and IED builders. Their contribution to their province and to coalition forces is truly outstanding and more than worthy of our appreciation."

The U.S. base commander shared his admiration.

"Today, it's about these heroes standing to my left," said Col. Eric Overturf, 506th Air Expeditionary Group commander. "I'm honored to stand here with someone who would not only do their main job of protecting the people [as firefighters], but also take 700 things like grenades, that I think could have saved the lives of 700 children that might have picked them up.

"These men, they protect and they serve their fellow man. I can think of no greater honor for a man to hold, and I am very honored to stand next to them."

Visiting Iraqi leaders attended the ceremony and one spoke about the relationship between the nations.

"I appreciate the coalition forces, especially the firefighters and EOD," said Iraqi Brig. Gen. Nasih Mohamed Sabr, who noted a relationship dating back to 2003. "That we learned a lot of things from them. Especially the training they give for our guys who trained with them. And also the support we received from them."

The general said the Iraqis—especially the Kirkuk firefighters, rescue workers and EOD-- will need the coalition forces' support until they get to the point that they can take the responsibilities by themselves.

"I appreciate the EOD guys, from their commander to their lowest-ranking member," he said. "And, hopefully, this relationship will continue and grow."

• Date Taken: 06.02.2009
• Date Posted: 06.02.2009 08:16
• Story ID: 34416
• Location: KIRKUK, IQ