ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — Although Antiterrorism Awareness Month is observed annually every August, terrorism is an enduring and persistent threat to not only the Army, but the nation. Understanding the signs of a threat and taking prudent protection measures is integral to maintaining the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command mission. Effective antiterrorism programs and sustained community vigilance can counter terrorist and extremist threats.
The Army Protection Program is where people and readiness converge. In the face of relentless challenges from networked terrorist groups and radicalized individuals, citizens encounter an ever-evolving array of terrorist tactics. Maintaining global readiness and safeguarding our personnel, information, installations, and critical assets is an indispensable mission for CECOM. One crucial way to achieve this is by updating training methods, such as active shooter response training.
“Run, Hide, Fight”
The “Run, Hide, Fight” strategy was developed as a straightforward, easy-to-remember protocol for civilians during an active shooter event. It emphasizes three key actions:
1. Run: If there is a safe path, escape the area immediately.
2. Hide: If escape is impossible, find a secure hiding place out of the shooter’s view.
3. Fight: As a last resort, and only if your life is in imminent danger, attempt to incapacitate the shooter using any means available.
This model was widely adopted due to its simplicity and effectiveness in providing clear guidance during chaotic situations. In recent years, the approach to active shooter training has evolved significantly.
While “Run, Hide, Fight” provided a solid foundation, real-world incidents highlighted the need for more detailed and flexible training. The complexity of active shooter scenarios, varying environments, and the psychological impact on individuals necessitated a broader approach. Additionally, feedback from law enforcement and emergency response professionals underscored the importance of integrating medical response and communication strategies into the training.
New models and approaches
In recent years, several new active shooter response models have emerged, building on the principles of “Run, Hide, Fight”: “Avoid, Deny, Defend,” “Move! Escape or Attack” and “Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate.”
Most recently, CECOM protection staff attended the ALICE “train-the-instructor” training and are working with the appropriate stakeholders to coordinate in-person classes explicitly tailored for the CECOM workforce. Customized training for specific Army environments ensures personnel are prepared for the unique challenges we may face. This holistic approach improves individual readiness and strengthens the collective security of Army installations and operations.
However, the efforts do not stop there. CECOM is also investing in multiple methods, trainings, exercises, and resources to ensure personnel are equipped with the latest knowledge and maintain our collective readiness. The goal is to ensure that CECOM personnel can respond effectively and efficiently, minimizing casualties and enhancing overall safety.
Antiterrorism at CECOM
The CECOM protection team remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting our workforce. Staying up-to-date on the evolution of active shooter training underscores our dedication to enhancing safety and preparedness amidst growing threats.
By expanding beyond “Run, Hide, Fight” to include integrated response, comprehensive training exercises, situational awareness, and psychological preparedness, these protocols will equip individuals with the skills and confidence needed to navigate and survive active shooter events.
Our goal remains clear as training continues to evolve: to save lives and bolster community resilience. Stay tuned for upcoming training dates for the updated CECOM-tailored, in-person active shooter response training in the next fiscal year.
Contact CECOM Antiterrorism Officer Carly Garrett at carly.p.garrett.civ@army.mil/520-671-1180 or the CECOM G3/5 protection team at usarmy.apg.cecom.list.g3-5-protection-cell-distro@army.mil with any questions.
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