Nicaraguan airman works combat search, rescue operations for PANAMAX 2012
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. – Maj. Garcia, operations officer for the Nicaraguan air force, participated in PANAMAX 2012 alongside Air Forces Southern, Aug. 6-17. PANAMAX is an annual U.S. Southern Command-sponsored exercise that focuses on ensuring the defense of the Panama Canal. One of the most important benefits of multinational exercises like PANAMAX is the fact that all the participants were able to exchange their experiences, expertise gained new knowledge about each other's culture and people. These interactions strengthen our bonds across the region and foster long-lasting friendships and an understanding among the partner nations, ultimately benefiting the security of the region. (USAF photo by Tech. Sgt. Andria Sapp/Released).