FORT BENNING, Ga., (March 25, 2015) -- An annual postwide force protection exercise was held March 18 across Fort Benning.
The exercise tested Fort Benning's emergency response capabilities in a variety of areas by simulating numerous emergency scenarios.
The exercise began with a simulated shooting at an access control point, with two individuals injured. An emergency alert notification was issued, and the installation was closed at every ACP for 15-20 minutes. During that time, the Directorate of Emergency Services began searching for a blue vehicle with three occupants.
"Had this been a real-world event, we would have (kept the installation closed) until we were able to get eyes on and find out the approximate location of that vehicle," said Lt. Col. Jason Czar, emergency services director.
After the simulated shooting at the ACP, there was a simulated car explosion at the old Martin Army Community Hospital.
The Fort Benning Fire Department, emergency medical services and police responded to the incident, and role players who simulated injured individuals were evacuated in ambulances and by medevac helicopter. First aid was provided on site for those who were not evacuated initially.
Some individuals trapped on the fifth floor of the hospital were removed using a fire truck's aerial ladder and platform.
Fort Benning's quick response force was alerted to provide a perimeter and security.
The next phase of the exercise then began, as DES received word that simulated hostages were being held on the sixth floor of the hospital.
Personnel from the Columbus Police Department's Special Weapons and Tactics unit were called in as hostage negotiators. When negotiations were unsuccessful, SWAT personnel entered the hospital.
This led to a simulated explosive vest being detonated, leading to further damage and injuries for DES personnel to respond to.
The incidents at the ACP and the hospital occurred simultaneously, and Czar said the multiple scenarios helped to provide a realistic level of stress.
"This helps us to find the strengths and weaknesses and identify the things we need to work on," he said. "We use this as an opportunity to see key leaders from different organizations work together. ... You have a number of moving assets during this time period you want to make sure are synchronized."
While the simulations were an area of emphasis, Czar said there were real-world events such as various traffic incidents happening simultaneously that also tested the post's resources.
With the exercise now complete, Czar said he was pleased with the way the exercise played out.
"It's been a positive response across the board," he said. "There's definitely a true learning value from this event. ... It was a resounding success."
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