'Heat' is on at Hurlburt Field

Published Oct. 1, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Joe McFadden
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. (AFNS) -- On the same court where special operations Airmen conduct physical training, the Miami Heat, a National Basketball Association team, kicked off their preseason training camp at the Aderholt Fitness Center Sept. 28 here.

The week-long camp also marks the first time the team has taken training camp outside of Southern Florida.

"The only differences (of practicing here) are the choppers and airplanes outside and the military guys here," said Chris Bosh, a forward for the Heat, about practicing on a military installation. "But we're big on the same things, like teamwork, and that's part of the reason we're here. We can learn from the military environment and bring discipline to an organization. I honor and respect them, and we wouldn't be here without them."

The Heat flew into Eglin Air Force Base Sept. 27 and hundreds of Airmen, civilians and basketball fans alike, greeted them.

"We had a long day, but coming in to that reception was awesome," said Dwyane Wade, a guard for the Heat. "We're thankful for them letting us be here and give us an opportunity to train side-by-side by some of the best people. It's an honor and privilege to be here."

Wade said his team was excited to be back on the basketball court and gain a new perspective into the work the men and women of the Air Force do every day.

"This is very important for us to get a better understanding of what really goes on and the very difficult and vital job that our military does for us," he said. "We want to get out and show our appreciation, and we look forward to it."

With the same focus on teamwork and drive, Miami Heat members cited the military's drive for excellence as very similar to that of a professional basketball team.

"The military goes by a strong core and a strong base," said LeBron James, a forward for the Heat. "They have things in place like commitment, being in a tight-knit group and not letting any distractions get in front of their game plan. Hopefully, we can implement that into our season."

Apart from the twice-daily practice sessions at the fitness center, the team will participate in a guided tour of the installation and visit with Hurlburt Airmen.

"It's really humbling to be around these people," James said. "The things they do for us allow us to have freedom. They put their lives on the line every day and night, and give us an opportunity to do what we love like playing the game of basketball, waking up every day and being free. I have much respect for them."

The team will be using the base fitness and lodging facilities during their visit to Hurlburt Field.

"We at Hurlburt Field have a proud tradition of excellence, sacrifice and commitment," said Col. Michael Plehn, the 1st Special Operations Wing commander. "Our world-class Airmen and facilities guarantee we can answer the call, any time, any place. We know the Miami Heat share this same commitment to excellence. This is why we're pleased to support their request to use our facilities for their 2010 training camp."

Miami Heat at Hurlburt