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AETC optimistic toward Afghan National Army Air Corps future

  • Published
  • By Air Force Staff Sgt. Thomas Dow
  • Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan Public Affairs
KABUL, Afghanistan --  The Air Education and Training Command International Training and Education deputy director accompanied the Afghan International Training Program manager on a visit to the Afghan national army air corps in August where they observed the current state of in-country training.

Col. Scott D. Seavers oversees international affairs for AETC, which is responsible for U.S. Air Force-sponsored international training. He said their mission in the rebuilding of the air corps is not to direct what training will be done, but provide the training they need.

"We're really in a support role here," he said. "Our vision is to support CAPTF (Combined Air Power Transition Force) and what the leadership in Afghanistan wants to do with their air corps. We help facilitate getting the training required to achieve that vision and goal."

S. David Spoon, Air Force Security Assistance Training Squadron International Training Program Manager (Afghanistan), arranges these training programs in support of CAPTF. He also serves as the executive agent for training issues at international meetings involving the rebuilding of the air corps.

August marked the first time both men visited the training grounds and gave them a chance to see the work being accomplished in Afghanistan first hand.

"It's obvious we are making an impact on the Afghan national army air corps," Mr. Spoon said. "They seem very receptive to the mentors and the guidance they are provided. I think it's helping them shape the future of their air corps."

The two men observed the progress being made in many key training areas. Some of the areas visited include the Kabul Air Corps Training Center, the English Learning Center and flightline maintenance.

The two-person team witnessed the work being accomplished, but also learned of the difficulties Afghans and their mentors faced. While there are many obstacles for the trainees to overcome, such as language and cultural differences, Mr. Spoon said the air corps service members were meeting the difficulties head on.

"Given all challenges of the environment and the many years of fighting and conflict, it makes me optimistic for the future of this nation knowing that together, cooperating as a team, we can help make this a safer region," he said.