MOUNTAIN HOME -- It's a partnership that spans the globe; the U.S. Air Force combining training efforts with The Republic of Singapore, and their worlds are converging in Idaho.
In September of last year, the first Singaporeans began arriving at the Mountain Home Air Force Base. They're here to train on the advanced F-15 Strike Eagles they purchased from the U.S. military.
"This is the latest step in a long and fruitful relationship between the two militaries; the United States and the Republic of Singapore and especially between our two air forces," said Michael Donley, Secretary of the Air Force.
A formal inauguration at the Mountain Home Air Force Base on Thursday signified the partnership between two nations that will span at least the next 20 years.
"It is a very exciting opportunity for us in a couple of ways. One, operationally, we get to train with one of our most important partners in the Pacific region, and two, we get to enjoy a really good cultural experience," said Col. John Bird, USAF.
"Mountain Home is a great place for the U.S. Air Force. It has wonderful training facilities. The wing here has welcomed us wonderfully and I would also like to say thank you to the community here for welcoming us and for making us feel at home here," said Deputy Prime Minister Chee Hean Teo, Singapore.
The 250 active duty Singaporeans, their spouses and children are now adjusting to a new language, a new culture and a new home in Mountain Home.
"It's a real cultural experience for them to move into a 2,500 square foot house, to have wide open spaces, to have to shovel snow and to have to cut grass in their front yard, it's been interesting for them." said Bird.
Mountain Home says it was selected as the training facility because of its extensive range complex, its year-round flying conditions and its highly trained personnel.
