JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
A major accident response exercise was conducted Aug. 10 and 11, in preparation for the upcoming 2017 Joint Base Andrews Air Show America’s Air and Space Expo, Sept. 16 and 17.
The exercise evaluated the response of base emergency personnel in the case of a mass casualty incident. The exercise is the installation's way of evaluating effectiveness, communication, safety and efficiency.
"We are holding this exercise to validate and confirm the readiness of regional and base first responders in case of an emergency," said Randy Sena, 11th Wing exercises and inspections chief.
JBA first responders worked with Prince George’s County emergency services to assess the situation and respond accordingly, just as they would in a real-world situation.
Approximately 22 volunteer actors, 35 evaluators and numerous first responders participated in the base-wide exercise.
“Seeing our first responders in action from the perspective of someone who was injured was an interesting experience,” said Senior Airman Travis Johnston, 11th Civil Engineer Squadron construction manager and exercise volunteer. “It was reassuring seeing them in action.”
During the two-day exercise, JBA's response effectiveness was evaluated. If discrepancies are found, corrections will be made to ensure optimal safety in the future.
For more information about the Air Show visit: www.andrewsairshow.org