OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Osan Air Power Day 2016 is right around the corner, and part of the preparation included an emergency management exercise on Sept. 8 and 9.
The exercise gave first responders a chance to run through a mid-air collision scenario, practicing how they would respond with the presence of thousands of extra people on base.
“The exact intent of this exercise was to mimic the upcoming air show in [as many ways] possible,” said Capt. Joseph Correia, 51st Civil Engineer Squadron readiness and emergency management flight commander. “All of the items that will be in the air show were set up for the exercise, such as medical tents being staged where they will be staged and fire trucks being staged in their areas.”
While the first responders were training on the ground, a different group of Airmen were operating in the emergency operations center, flexing and honing their peacetime response actions and coordinating between dozens of agencies.
“The EM flight basically runs the [command and control] node for all of the first responders in the EOC,” said Correia. “Our main focus and goal there is to supply the first responders with whatever they need to get their job done.”
While the on-base response was being handled by Air Force personnel, just as much coordination with multiple local organizations has happened off-base, including fire and police departments, local emergency management offices and city government officials.
"Air Power Day is going to be an absolute blast for everyone who comes out to enjoy the festivities, but in case an emergency situation occurs, we are prepared to respond both on and off base," said Col. Andrew Hansen, 51st Fighter Wing commander. "The safety of our community visitors and military personnel in attendance is our top priority, and training like this ensures our readiness for any unanticipated events."