The 96th Test Wing will lead a multi-agency aircraft mass casualty response exercise on Dec. 11, prompting the closure of General Bond Boulevard from 8 a.m. to noon.
- The exercise, conducted in partnership with Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, will simulate a major airline crash to evaluate emergency response capabilities and fulfill the airport’s tri-annual emergency action plan review requirements.
More than a dozen agencies will participate, including fire departments from Eglin, Ocean City Wright, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, North Bay, and Okaloosa Island. The exercise will also involve Okaloosa County Department of Public Safety’s emergency management and emergency medical services, along with law enforcement agencies including the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, 96th Security Forces Squadron, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and FBI.
Medical response will be coordinated through the 96th Medical Group, Air Methods, HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital, and District One Medical Examiner’s Office. The 96th TW Safety office and the 96th Force Support Squadron will conduct simulated search and recovery operations.
Local residents and motorists near the intersection of General Bond Boulevard and Highway 85, as well as the airport’s cargo area, may observe smoke, emergency vehicles, and people with simulated injuries. Similar activity may be visible at the 96th MDG and HCA Florida Twin Cities medical facilities.
For additional information, contact the 96th TW Public Affairs office at (850) 882-3931.
