Tech. Sgt. Casey Fletcher (left), U.S. Air Force Detachment 3, 7th Weather Squadron, receives basic orientation at the three-story Ederle Airborne jump tower with one of the Alpini soldiers during the Tactical Weather Exchange, also known as TWX 2017...
VICENZA, Italy -- As part of an annual partnership program with Italian Alpini troops that dates back 16 years, members of the Brigata Alpina "Taurinense," (Taurinense Alpine Brigade) and Comando Truppe Alpine - Servizio Meteomont trained alongside the Vicenza-based U.S. Air Force Army Support Weather Detachment 3, 7th Weather Squadron, here, Nov. 13-17.
The group participated in a series of engagement skills training that included first aid and an orientation to airborne skills at the Gunfighter Gym that helped to build trust and friendship between international partners.
"We've seen how we can have a stronger NATO alliance, putting in the work early in these types of exchanges," said Tech. Sgt. Casey Fletcher, 7th Weather Squadron's Det. 3, who acted as liaison alongside Tech Sgt. Rafael Delgado, guiding the Alpini in the Italian language throughout the week.
"By showing your partners that you value them, it gives everyone a better sense of ownership in the alliance. It works in the same spirit as strengthening family ties," he said.
The detachment also worked with the Alpini in sharing tactical weather operations during a "care under fire" scenario, as well as Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) rollover training. The orientation to airborne tactics included a visit to the Ederle jump tower and tactical observation on a ruck march with combat lifesaver techniques, where they simulated reacting to indirect fire.
According to Fletcher, the Alpini soldiers provided their knowledge on weather analysis to aid in determining Alpine-crossing safety levels along the Dolomite Mountains for skiers and Alpini soldiers.
Later this winter, the Alpini will provide the airmen with avalanche forecast training in Bolzano, as their contribution to the biannual partnership exchange. The training will focus on learning and upgrading some techniques about snow conditions, avalanche forecast and risk evaluation.
"Throughout the years, this collaboration has added depth to the relationship the American military shares with our host nation," said Fletcher.
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