Malmstrom Airmen aid off-base accident response

  • Published
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  A group of Malmstrom Airmen aided a family after their vehicle rolled over July 23 near Belt, Montana.

Due to the proximity of the crash to a missile alert facility and the lack of cellphone reception in the area, they used their Air Force first responder and self-aid buddy care training to render aid until an ambulance arrived.

The missile crews, missile alert facility manager and security forces Airmen came together to exercise their expertise to respond.

“They quickly assessed the situation and realized they needed to set up a safety perimeter around the accident,” said 1st Lt. Mark Caiazza, 10th Missile Squadron assistant flight commander. “Airmen cordoned off the surrounding area, ensuring the safety of the injured and nearby witnesses.”

The vehicle that crashed included a man, small child and service dog. No one sustained serious injuries. The family received first aid and was transferred by ambulance to a local hospital for evaluation.

Capt. Dustin Crowe, 10th Missile Squadron missile crew commander, and 1st Lt. Justin Happ, 10th Missile Squadron deputy missile crew commander, were driving near the civilian vehicle that crashed and assessed victims for shock and injuries until emergency responders could take over.

“Lt. Happ and I were able to get emergency services there immediately through the use of our vehicle radio, because it was in an area with no cellphone coverage,” Crowe said.

The initial response team belonged to the 341st Missile Security Force Squadron’s Alpha and Golf flights.

Airmen directed traffic around the area to enable police, firefighters and paramedics to arrive on scene as quickly possible.

“I haven’t encountered a situation like this before, but I was ready” said Airman 1st Class Tristan Banks, 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron security forces member. “It felt amazing to support everyone responding and to help the family get back on their feet.”

Their combined efforts ensured pedestrian safety, timely emergency response and traffic management.

Jumping in to help a neighbor in need, whether it’s at an accident like this or volunteering in the community, the men and women of Team Malmstrom have been an integral part of the Great Falls community for over 70 years and are dedicated to continue being good neighbors.

“We are grateful that no one was seriously injured, proud of our Airmen and their ability to get the mission done no matter what,” said Col. Jay Folds, 341st Missile Wing vice commander.

“With a unique mission and a 13,800 square mile missile complex, we’ve got to be prepared for anything and Team Malmstrom always delivers.”