Annual full-scale exercise tests U.S.-Italian response capabilities

VICENZA, Italy – This year, it was Caserma Del Din’s turn to host the annual full-scale Lion Response exercise held May 8 involving both U.S. and Italian emergency response agencies.

“The exercise serves as the best opportunity for U.S. Army Garrison Italy and Italian partners to test and validate joint response capabilities in realistic scenarios,” said Installation Emergency Manager Kevin Lawson, whose role includes developing plans for all-hazard emergencies and working with Italian counterparts.

During the full-scale exercise, the installation faced a simulated attack by protestors and the support and cooperation of Italian Carabinieri, Military Police, USAG Italy Fire and Emergency Services and local medical agencies and emergency responders was tested.

At each location, first responders had to quickly assess the situation.

“We were invited here to this multi-force simulation, and it was a complex scenario, with five “victims” involving demonstrators, one unharmed while the others were injured and one deceased,” said Alessio Rigon, doctor of the SUEM of Vicenza (Italian medical emergency service).

Initially, the Italian medical staff, which consisted of two ambulances, drivers and nurses from SUEM-Arzignano and SUEM-Vicenza collaborated with the firefighters and MPs.

“They helped us in the initial ‘triage’ phase when the injured were classified by red and black code,” he added.

The relationship with Italian counterparts is renewed every year, even though it was the first experience for Rigon.

“From our point of view the simulations are a vital thing, and the invitation to collaborate again, as every year, was very appreciated; it is an honor to be here, we are very happy to be present and work in partnership with the other forces,” he said.

Part of the exercise was also the extinguishing of a car fire by the firefighters who were alerted immediately.

“The exercise was really good,” said Luca Giaretta, Battalion Chief Fire Department, who has been participating in these events more than 20 times.

“It is a good practice for us and also for the Vigili del Fuoco [local firefighters], because this kind of exercise ensures proficiency for the community and our fire department and helps build a good partnership.”

Click here for video of this important exercise.