Jump week brings five NATO countries together

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Scott Saldukas
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
ALZEY, Germany --  The Heavy Airlift Wing at Papa Air Base, Hungary, conducted their first personnel drop here June 15 during a four-day joint country exercise.

The training is a part of International Jump Week which includes five NATO countries participating in airborne jump operations to build partnerships and capabilities needed to meet future challenges.

More than 100 paratroopers jumped out of a C-17 Globemaster III from the HAW and C-130J Hercules from the 37th Airlift Squadron at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The jumpers were made up of Belgium, German, United Kingdom, Norwegian, Air Force, Army and Marine servicemembers.

During the three days of jumps, about 300 took place.

Though this isn't the first time NATO countries have participated in jump week, it was the first time the recently stood up HAW participated.

"The wing hasn't even been activated for a full year yet," said Master Sgt. Jason Brown, HAW chief loadmaster. "It's great that we are able to be a part of this and contribute to this awesome event."

Although earning their foreign wings is an accomplishment in itself, the event allows each of the nation's military members to take away new capabilities and experiences with them.

"It's amazing to get everyone together and share what they know with each other," said Tech. Sgt. David Edwards, 435th Contingency Response Group NCOIC of airborne operations. "It's also beneficial for the other countries participating if they were to deploy to Afghanistan, because from the training, they would understand how the U.S. military works."

Building partnerships and allowing the military servicemembers to meet one another while training was another key focus during the event.

"The jumps provide them the opportunity to get together, get some training and experience the jump with multiple nations," Sergeant Edwards said. "This training is an experience that I hope many others will be able to take advantage of in the years to come."