Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

A firefighter assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing exits a burning building during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. As part of the evaluation, firefighters executed rapid search, rescue and suppression tactics, ensuring they maintain the skills needed to keep Air Commandos and their families safe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

Firefighters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing test fire hose pressure during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. Firefighters were assessed on search and clearance procedures and fire suppression, ensuring they are ready to respond to any contingency. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

Firefighters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing inspect their equipment during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. Firefighters were assessed on search and clearance procedures and fire suppression, ensuring they are ready to respond to any contingency. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

Firefighters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing feel a door for heat during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. The evaluation tested how well the team could contain a fire under time constraints, which serves to strengthen unit cohesion and communication in high-stress, real-world situations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

A 1st Special Operations Wing firefighter's gear is prepped for use during structural live-fire evaluations at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. During the evaluation, firefighters were tested on their ability to quickly suppress a fire under varying conditions, ensuring they are prepared to respond to any contingency. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

Firefighters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing repack a fire hose during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. As part of the evaluation, firefighters executed rapid search, rescue and suppression tactics, ensuring they maintain the skills needed to keep Air Commandos and their families safe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)

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Under pressure: Firefighters undergo live-fire evaluations

Published April 21, 2026
By Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- A firefighter assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing exits a burning building during a structural live-fire evaluation at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 6, 2026. As part of the evaluation, firefighters executed rapid search, rescue and suppression tactics, ensuring they maintain the skills needed to keep Air Commandos and their families safe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Hunt)