Base exercise to test response procedures

  • Published
  • By J.C. Corcoran
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Exercise evaluations are a normal part of the Hanscom routine. The major exercise scenario planned for Aug. 19 is part of a series of exercises planned to test the readiness and capabilities of many of Hanscom's emergency services.

In the wake of the tragic shootings that took place last week in a workplace setting in Connecticut, as well as last November at Fort Hood, Texas, bases throughout the military are evaluating their own procedures and capabilities for handling an active shooter, should such an event take place on their doorstep.

Plans for conducting such an exercise here are in the final stages and will test the capabilities of Hanscom's emergency responders. The planned base-wide exercise will involve the total lockdown of the base and will include the closure of gates to inbound and outbound traffic.

"Letting people know in advance of this exercise is serving a two-fold purpose," said Joe Lawlor, Base Readiness Exercises chief. "First and foremost, we want to ensure all of our emergency services personnel are prepared and ready should ever a time come when we move from exercise mode to a real world situation. Secondly, we want all Hanscom personnel to know the important roles they play in such an event."

For emergency personnel it will mean responding to a planned situation in a timely and professional manner in order to protect Air Force personnel and assets. For those not directly involved in the exercise, it means taking the exercise seriously and watching out for one another.

"During the upcoming exercise, base personnel can expect a complete lockdown of all the facilities on base with few exceptions," Mr. Lawlor said. "Building mangers, already aware of their important roles, will be ensuring each facility is secured and no one will be allowed to move -- with the exception of real world emergencies -- during the lock down period."

Although the exercise itself is expected to last a couple of hours, the lockdown of base facilities, particularly those away from the main exercise area, is not expected to be long. All Hanscom personnel are strongly encouraged to do their part by obeying all directions given by security personnel and their building managers during the exercise.