Sheppard firefighters blaze through training Published Oct. 7, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- On a quiet flight line, two simulated pilots stand by as a gaggle of first responder vehicles entered the area. Abruptly the silence is interrupted as sirens ring out through the area and figures clad in protective gear and gas tanks hop out to pull them from the cockpit. This octane-fueled moment was just one of many for the Sheppard fire department as they conducted a training exercise Sept. 26. This training simulation, meant to mimic the scenario of a downed, injured and trapped pilot, is part of an ongoing effort by firefighters at Sheppard to make sure when they get a call, they're ready no matter what the situation requires. Trent Thompson, 82nd Civil Engineering Squadron assistant chief of training, knows that firefighters could possibly be the last chance for a pilot to get out of a dangerous situation. "If something goes wrong, we go out there and get them," he said. Thompson said the camaraderie and passion of the career field makes the team unique. "They wouldn't be in this job if they didn't love what they do," he said. "We're like brothers." While the job can be difficult at times, Thompson looks toward that same camaraderie as an asset to get each member through challenging moments. As they go into potentially life-threatening situations, coping with the pressure can be challenging. "It's after the emergency that can be stressful," he said. "We look out for each other." With firefighters pulling the injured pilot out the aircraft, just as soon as the excitement had begun, it was abruptly ended. "It's important for us to help when needed," said Rick Mackin, 82nd CES assistant chief of operations. "It keeps everybody safe." Mackin wants the training to be as good as possible so that when the time comes for the real thing, each team member will be ready. "That's why we train," he commented. "Our lives depend on it."