Camp Lemonnier's security team conducts anti-terrorism training

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Jared Walker | CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti – The Camp Lemonnier Security Department conducts an anti-terrorism improvised explosive device (IED) drill to gauge the response of the base command post, quick reaction force, explosive ordnance disposal team and military working dogs, Mar. 6, 2018. Security professionals in America’s Navy – also known as Masters at Arms (MAs) provide security, implement policy and preserve stability within the Fleet. They’re equipped with the latest law enforcement tools and techniques for keeping the peace. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared E. Walker/Released)  

CAMP LEMONNIER, DJIBOUTI

06.25.2018

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Sarah Brandt 

Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti -- Military law enforcement personnel face unique situations that may create a security response challenge. In order to prepare service members and base personnel in the event of a terrorist attack, Camp Lemonnier base security and Army Security Forces conducted an anti-terrorism standoff drill, June 19, 2018.

Camp Lemonnier’s Security Officer Lt. Cmdr. Rodney Loughridge, explained the training was designed to test the commands readiness in compliance with regional objectives.

“We need to ensure what we have in our pre-planned responses are consistent with what we would be needing in a real situation,” Loughridge said.

Simulated gunfire by training exercise actor Master-at-Arms Senior Chief Anthony Russell, ignited a cascade of moving parts. Command Post Dispatch Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Ashley Sprowls, Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Christopher Farmer and Watch Commander Master-at-Arms 1st Class Thomas Sills, responded to the situation.

Multitasking through whaling alarms and an evolving threat, command post members directed patrol units and alerted command assets and emergency personnel. Meanwhile, other officers set up a cordon, incident command and secured the entry control points to clear the way for the Horn of Africa Quick Reaction Force (HOA QRF).

Nineteen minutes after the initial call, QRF arrived on scene to engage and neutralize the threat; a near 15-minute improvement from a similar active shooter drill held a month ago.

Anti-terrorism Force Protection Officer James McDougal, hailed the training a success during the after action report.

“Our response time for cordons was spot on,” McDougal said. “QRF was engaging by 07:19 a.m. -- and that’s driving regular speed.”

The command collectively discussed lessons learned and identified areas to improve for future evolutions.

“We could be all set up and then have a power outage,” McDougal said. “After the first shot, the whole plan could go out the window; we have to be ready for that.”

Camp Lemonnier is one of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, installations that conducts six lines of operation to support air operations, port operations, safety, security, quality of life, and what is called the core: the fuels, water and power that keep the bases operating.

Camp Lemonnier’s mission includes enabling joint warfighters operating forward and to reinforce the U.S. – Djibouti relationship by providing exceptional services and facilities for the tenant commands, transient U.S. assets and service members.

• Date Taken: 06.25.2018
• Date Posted: 06.25.2018 15:23
• Story ID: 282199
• Location: CAMP LEMONNIER, DJ