JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Team Andrews' members participated in a base-wide Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives training exercise here, April 28, 2016.
The exercise scenario simulated a disgruntled Airman that released ammonia on base to cause mass casualties in the contamination area.
"This (exercise) gives us the opportunity to see where our strengths and weaknesses are, and develop corrective actions for the areas we didn't perform as strong as we wanted to," said Carl Mcklveen, Joint Base Andrews Emergency Services station chief. "It also gives us the ability to work and train with other agencies."
The exercise tested the emergency responder's procedures to a CBRNE incident, but also how quickly it takes for base personnel to get communication on what to do, according to Tech. Sgt. Sherome Ferrell, 11th Wing Inspector General self-assessment program manager.
Ferrell also noted that one of the things that the IG office looks for during an exercise is communication throughout the base.
"Communication provides flexibility, even though we are trying to execute a plan. If it's not working out, if we're communicating, we can adjust to that plan," said Randy Sena, 11th IG director of inspections. "If were not communicating, then no one is aware of what is going on and our response can be compromised."
Wing Inspection Team members throughout the base made sure personnel followed correct procedures during the exercise.
According to Ferrell, following the exercise, the IG team will hold a meeting that allows for IG and wing inspection team members to analyze the exercise results, which they will present the findings to the command team for future planning processes.
"This exercise was important to test our CBRNE response procedures and identify ways to improve the processes," said Col. Julie A. Grundahl, 11th Wing and JBA vice commander. "The IG report will serve as a blueprint for future JBA responses to scenarios like this one."