Base, community to tackle All Hazards Response training Published May 29, 2009 By 341st Missile Wing 341st Missile Wing MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Senior Malmstrom leadership and Great Falls emergency services members will meet from June 2 to 4 and train on responding to a chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear incident as a military and civilian team. This will be half "table-top" and half "field" exercise. Table-top portions of the exercise do not require equipment or forces; however, all participants will simulate their responses to the highest degree possible in order to better identify shortfalls in reaction procedures. Field portions of the exercise will include equipment and emergency responders participating in hands-on simulations. In the current dynamic threat environment, a coordinated military and civilian response is critical to effectively deal with an incident that could have wide-ranging effects. However, one can only imagine such a response is immensely complicated. This training event is designed to clarify the lines of both responsibility and cooperation to facilitate a quick and effective response to a large-scale emergency operation or major incident. Agencies from on- and off-base will get an opportunity to interact, share knowledge and establish a mutual understanding, which can then be used to refine response plans. Exercise participants include, but are not limited to, members of the medical, legal, law enforcement, public affairs, logistics and chaplaincy career fields. People invited to attend will participate in two different scenarios: a pandemic influenza outbreak and a chemical incident on base. Only by constant practice and refinement can the cooperative abilities of the base and community reach a sustainable level of excellence. While these exercises are sometimes demanding, one is reminded of Gen. George Patton's opinion of training and how important it is: "A pint of sweat saves a gallon of blood."