187th Fighter Wing: Security Forces X S.W.A.T

MONTGOMERY, AL, UNITED STATES

09.20.2023

Story by Billy Blankenship  

187th Fighter Wing

The 187th Fighter Wing conducted an active shooter exercise with the
Montgomery Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics team, September 20, 2023.

The combined effort was designed to evaluate performance gaps related to command-and-control methodology, determine limitations between the participants, build relationships, and develop effective communications between all entities.

“First, we must be able to work closely with our partners in the Montgomery River Region,” said Maj. Robert Campbell, the director of inspections for the 187th Fighter Wing. “The training piece enables a look into how we operate and vice versa in a realistic scenario so that we
can effectively respond on base. It gives us the abilities to learn common tactics, techniques and
procedures in order to clearly and effectively communicate. The more we work together,
the better we work together.”

The training consisted of clearing of buildings looking for an active shooter and causalities.
Participants were evaluated on ability to move quickly from a staging area to the incident location with an emphasis on agility and responsiveness to a flexible environment.

“We have to be prepared at every level,” said Master Sgt. Bobby Boswell, the superintendent for the wing’s inspector general office. “When our local responders can get reps speaking the same language and moving as one, when called upon, we’ll be prepared to execute fluidly.”

The collaboration between the organizations presented new opportunities and resources that could help establish a plan for future state emergency missions and public safety for the state.

“The local S.W.A.T teams are experts in what they do and our ability to take best practices on how we operate separately and blend them together for cohesive response only enhances both teams’ abilities in the future,” said Chief Master Sgt. Mataya Williams, the 187th Fighter Wing’s command chief. “We are in an era that will require adaption and modernization across the board and this is one example of collaborating within and outside of the gate for the greater benefit for readiness on all fronts.”

• Date Taken: 09.20.2023
• Date Posted: 09.20.2023 13:31
• Story ID: 453890
• Location: MONTGOMERY, AL, US