The 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base will conduct a joint aircraft mass casualty accident response exercise on Sept. 25, closing General Bond Boulevard from 8 a.m. to noon.
- The exercise aims to assess the wing’s ability to establish and maintain command, control, and coordination with multiple agencies on and off base. In partnership with Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, the scenario will simulate a major airline crash.
Participating organizations include:
- Eglin’s fire department
- Okaloosa County Department of Public Safety, encompassing emergency management and emergency medical services
- Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office
- 96th Security Forces Squadron
- 96th Medical Group
- Air Methods
- HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital
- HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital
- District One Medical Examiner’s Office
Motorists near the intersection of General Bond Boulevard and Highway 85, as well as the Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport’s cargo area, may observe smoke, individuals with simulated injuries, and emergency medical services from Eglin and Okaloosa County responding to the exercise.
- People at the 96th MDG and local hospitals may also see individuals with simulated injuries being treated by medical staff.
This exercise serves a dual purpose, as it also fulfills Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport’s tri-annual review of its emergency action plan.
For additional information, the 96th TW Public Affairs office can be contacted at (850) 882-3931.
