The Tennessee Military Department, in collaboration with a multitude of state and local agencies, has announced the scheduling of an emergency response exercise set to span across Tennessee from May 15-19. This exercise, titled “Tennessee Maneuvers 2024,” will take place in multiple counties including Bradley, Coffee, Davidson, Gibson, Hamilton, Hawkins, Knox, Loudon, Madison, Maury, McMinn, Rhea, Rutherford, Sullivan, and Wilson.
Participation in this exercise will be widespread, involving numerous police and fire departments across the state. Notable participants include the Chattanooga, Knox County, and Tennessee Valley Authority police departments, as well as the Nashville Fire Department’s Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team. Coordination for all events will be conducted through the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) and local emergency management agencies, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive approach to the exercise.
Maj. Gen. Warner Ross, Tennessee’s Adjutant General, emphasized the importance of such exercises, stating, “These exercises, where we operate jointly, are crucial for the readiness of our organization.” He highlighted the benefits of inter-agency collaboration, noting that working closely allows for the refinement of policies and procedures, and builds vital relationships that enhance overall effectiveness in response to real emergencies.
The focal scenario for this year’s exercise involves responding to a flood in southeast Tennessee. Participants will engage in various activities including search and rescue operations, securing critical sites, and responding to infrastructure failures. Residents in the state, especially those in Davidson, Hamilton, and Knox counties, should anticipate an increased military presence during the exercise period as part of these training activities.
For further information on this and other related activities, updates can be found on the Tennessee Army and Air National Guard’s official website at https://www.tn.gov/military/news.html.
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