BARDSTOWN, Ky. – The Kentucky National Guard's 41st Civil Support Team (CST) tested its readiness to respond to threats from weapons of mass destruction on March 15-18.
This certification is conducted every 18 months to keep the team of 18 Soldiers and four Airmen up to date with protocols and procedures. The specialized unit is one of 57 domestic teams – one for each state and territory – and is responsible for assisting various agencies in the event of a perceived threat.
Responding to the threat of explosives, biohazardous materials and chemical agents is no small undertaking. While the CST is highly trained and capable, there is always room to innovate and develop better systems.
The Louisville-based team, which operates under the 75th Troop Command, most commonly works with local and state police but includes cooperation with the FBI, Coast Guard, Border Patrol, Census Bureau and UPS.
"There's no doubt in my mind that this team is solid in knowing their subject matter," said Lt. Col. Noi Boriboune, the unit’s commander. "I feel confident in their ability and area of expertise. They will come together as a team to not only complete this evaluation but do so to the best of their ability."
The CST is unique in the Kentucky Guard in that all service members are full-time employees and are routinely called upon to cover missions across the state and beyond. The past year, the team assisted Louisville police with civil disturbance missions and traveled to the nation's capital for the presidential inauguration and aftermath.
This most recent evaluation was a test of the unit's combined knowledge and skill set. A team from Army North, based out of Fort Sam, Houston, Texas, graded the process.
On the day of the evaluation, the team received a scenario indicating the presence of an explosive device, possibly criminal. A suspect was already in custody, but two FBI agents experienced side effects such as burning eyes and difficulty breathing.
The team discussed the threat and created a plan based on their standard operating procedures and training parameters.
Using specialized equipment, the initial survey team took photos, monitored the area, and observed device readings. A secondary team collected samples for further testing and disabling attempts.
Scott Boatman, a survey operator from Army North, set up the scenarios and observed the team.
"We set up all kinds of labs, devices, and items for the survey team to gain experience of situations they may not normally see," said Boatman. "I have conducted evaluations with 19 of the 57 civil support teams from different areas, and through that observation, we cross-pollinate situations to further expand each team’s knowledge and skill set."
Derrick Johnson, Army North Foxtrot team lead, said he can tell who has taken the time to prepare for such evaluations and who has not." The idea is to be proactive and not reactive while also being knowledgeable about challenges these teams might face," said Johnson. "This command team has done an excellent job in making sure that is happening."
The team completed all the requirements and passed the evaluation.
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