PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The Front Range Exercise and Evaluation kicked off Monday, April 22, 2019, across military installations on the Front Range.
The exercise was designed to test installation personnel’s ability to effectively respond to unplanned crisis events.
On Peterson Air Force Base, day one started off with a simulated explosion at the Base Auditorium.
The exercise included a phishing attempt designed to trick Airmen into showing up at the Base Auditorium for a fake commander’s call. Once at the auditorium, the individuals were advised that they fell for the attempt and would now be exercise role players for the duration of the week.
The exercise emphasized the 21st Space Wing’s continued commitment to ensure base readiness.
“FREE 19-01 was a combined effort across Front Range installations,” said Maj. Timothy Sheehan, 21st Space Wing Inspector General. “We presented a variety of scenarios to assess various objectives and interaction between organizations. These exercises are ideal for personnel to evaluate their procedures and unit readiness in order to identify strengths and areas for improvement so we are best prepared for real-world contingencies.”
As the exercise progressed throughout the week, Airmen were tested with various simulated events, prompting emergency responders, medical and bioenvironmental engineering Airmen to spring into action.
Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station personnel responded to simulated active shooters, a suspicious package and potential water contamination.
The exercise concluded with a simulated press conference where Col. Todd Moore, the 21st SW commander practiced responding to media.
“I can sit at a desk behind a computer all day and give people directions on what to do and how to do it,” said Moore. “Things like this are good because they give me a chance to go as hard as the other Airmen who are working during these types of exercises.”
These exercises are vital training tools that ensure emergency response forces are able to effectively respond to any crisis. If you see something unusual, say something by calling 719-556-4000.