Unit Training Event Published May 20, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Steven R. Doty 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin AFB personnel from the 96th Flying Training Squadron took part in a joint training event at Amistad National Recreation Area in Del Rio, Texas, May 15, 2014. Laughlin provided the airspace, infrastructure and a geographical environment conducive to realistic joint training. Over two months of training cumulated at Lake Amistad that served as a realistic and thorough refresher course on search-and-rescue and water survival. "Coordination had to occur with the 36th Aviation Brigade, State Aviation Office, Texas Task Force 1, our active duty counterparts at the 47th Flight Training Wing, and the Department of Texas Parks and Wildlife," said Lt Col Nathan Rought, 96th Flight Training Squadron commander. "Without the support of any single one of these agencies, we could not have had a successful operation". The infrastructure used to conduct the training included the four Texas Army National Guard Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawks, six boats for safety spotters and rescue swimmers, two trailers full of life-support, rescue, and emergency medical supplies. To further ensure safety countless personal vehicles, tents, coolers, and other supplies were available to keep everyone hydrated, cool, and safe throughout the day. The joint event not only provided a unique and realistic training opportunity, but demonstrated the ability for multiple assets, military or not, to come together in the event of a local crisis and save lives. To see the slideshow, click here.