Altus AFB conducts active-shooter exercise

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Klynne Pearl Serrano
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Exercise evaluators observed as gunfire sounded throughout the deployment center during an active-shooter exercise Dec. 11, 2013.

The exercise tested first responders' ability to obtain custody of an assailant, care for the injured and move them to a safe and secure location.

"Emergency responders involved in this exercise are dedicated to protecting the base's most precious resources and restoring order as quickly as possible," said U.S. Air Force Maj. Brandon Gorab, 97th Air Mobility Wing chief of wing inspections.

Exercises like this are frequently practiced to protect people who live and work on base. Recent events like these underscore the need for training regarding active shooter events.

"Unfortunately these types of extreme events are possible," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ronald Keeve, 97th Security Forces Squadron flight chief. "While infrequent, the severity and dynamic nature of active shooter scenarios requires specific and re-occurring training to maintain proficiency so if an incident did happen here at Altus AFB, Security Forces personnel are capable of quickly engaging and neutralizing threats, and preserving the crime scene."

Though the exercise was a success, Altus Airmen are highly encouraged to continue to improve readiness and effectiveness through discussing an escape plan and how to prevent a tragedy like this.

"Exercising our active-shooter contingency plan keeps our response on point," Gorab said. "Our ability to respond in this manner serves as a deterrent and directly contributes to minimizing human suffering and loss, should such an event take place."