David Y. Ige

U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii
Public Affairs Office
“Malama na Koa”
(808) 656-3154 / 656-3160
Release number: 2018-07-02
Annual emergency response exercise focuses on safety, preparedness
Community advised of related activities at several Oahu Army installations
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii (July 5, 2018) — U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii will be conducting an annual exercise July 11-12 to evaluate first responder and emergency response capabilities in the event of a natural or man-made emergency.
Exercise activities will take place at Fort Shafter Flats and Fort DeRussy, July 11, and Schofield Barracks, July 12. Individuals may see and hear emergency response vehicles in and around these installations but should not be alarmed.
“The safety and security of our Army installations in Hawaii and those who live and work there are our highest priority,” said Col. Thomas Barrett, commander, U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii. “This annual exercise gives us the ability to practice our response plans and actions.”
Traffic Impacts
At Fort Shafter Flats and Fort Shafter, gate security will be increased beginning at approximately 9 a.m. and concluded when exercise scenarios are met. Fort Shafter’s Patch Gate will be closed to inbound traffic during this time. These measures may result in traffic delays into Fort Shafter Flats and Fort Shafter during this period. Please allow for adequate commuting time adjacent to the Fort Shafter area.
Additionally, the scenario at Fort Shafter Flats includes using a simulator to replicate a bomb detonation around 9 a.m. If surrounding community members and businesses hear the simulator, there is no cause for alarm.
We ask for everyone’s understanding, patience and cooperation during this important exercise. Questions can be directed to the U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs Office at (808) 656-3154, 656-3155 or 656-3160.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Dennis Drake, Public Affairs
808-226-2706; [email protected]