COPE TIGER 2004 participants listen to closing ceremony remarks. Photo by TSgt. Jonathan Doti, USAF

RTAF Gp. Capt. Songtam Chokanapitak greets USAF Maj. Gen. Dennis R. Larsen and USAF Col. George Daniels before the closing ceremony of COPE TIGER 2004. Photo by TSgt. Jonathan Doti, USAF

Villagers waited several hours in sweltering heat and humidity, but did not seem to mind, noted Sgt. Mussehl. “We turned no one away. Even with the language barrier, we knew they were extremely appreciative by the way they smiled and how they would hold our arms after being treated. COPE TIGER is much more than just flying,” he continued. “It’s important we build and maintain a great relationship with the local community wherever we’re deployed.”

Conclusion
Maj.-Gen. Lim Kim Choon was correct when he said COPE TIGER would prove to be “an exciting, challenging, and rewarding” experience for all participants. The exercise not only enhanced the professionalism and interoperability of the participating aviation forces from the three countries, but also promoted lasting goodwill and friendships between the three forces. Moreover, their medical and civic action projects built strong bonds with the people of Thailand.