2015 Firefighter Challenge tests Airmen’s strength

  • Published
  • By Airman Sadie Colbert
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The Ellsworth Fire Department hosted the annual Firefighter Challenge to kick off Fire Prevention Week Oct. 2.

Approximately 50 Airmen and civilians participated in the event that included a fire-hose drag, 100-foot rescue dummy drag, two ladder climbs, and a sledge hammer endurance test.

"During [the challenge], I definitely found a new respect for the fire department because it was so difficult," said Senior Airman Nelson Berrios, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron construction inspector. "But when the firemen were doing it, they were actually doing it really well."

Berrios said it definitely brought his morale up with everyone working as a team to complete the event.

"Throughout the challenge, the teamwork was the best part," Berrios said. "It [reminds] you that we are in this together."

The firehouse also hosted an open house Oct. 3 where attendees had the opportunity to view lifesaving equipment and experience firefighter training.

"Sometimes [people] just see somebody driving a fire truck around [and] think firemen just hang out at the station all day, but they don't realize the physical requirement of the job when there is an emergency," said Steve Hilton, 28th CES assistant fire chief and Fire Prevention Week event coordinator. "I'm hoping they walk away with a greater appreciation for what firefighters do."