Shooting for security, trust

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hailey Haux
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Six Airmen from the 86th Security Forces Squadron participated in a live-fire training event with the Deutsche Bundespolizei, German Federal Police, in Bexbach, Jan. 11.

"It gives us a chance to familiarize ourselves with their weapon system and tactics especially as it pertains to high risk responses," said Tech. Sgt. Eric Fritz, 86th SFS assistant NCOIC of security forces training.

Those selected to go to the training were chosen by their flight chiefs because of their recent work performance.

The Airmen shot the H&K MP-5 submachine gun and P-30 pistol. They were tested from a range of three meters to 50 meters.

"We shot standing up, from behind a barricade and in the kneeling position," said Senior Airman Emilio Montez, 86th SFS. "It was a great opportunity to see how we are able to fire their weapons so we can be prepared for possibly working with them in the future."

Each weapon's magazine held a dummy round to simulate a malfunction and test the person's ability to perform immediate actions.

During training, both sides were giving tips and tricks to help each other as well as sly comments to add to the competition.

Training with the German police isn't just about getting to know systems and tactics; it also helps improve joint force.

"We have a mutual aid agreement with the German Police and there may come a time or situation when we respond as a team here on Ramstein," said Fritz. "The first time we work together shouldn't be during a real world response."

This was as much of a learning experience for the Bundespolizei as it was for the Airmen from the 86th SFS.

It gives us a better relationship while gaining trust on both sides, said Polizeihauptmeister Bernd Scherer, Bundespolizei head police instructor. If we have a crisis it's important to trust one another and these trainings help us become more efficient.

All members qualified on both weapons and were invited to return in April for a two-day shooting event.