The Joint Region Marianas (JRM) and U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) are conducting the annual Heavy Weather Exercise 2021 from June
21 to 24.
The annual exercise is designed to enhance the readiness of military and local
agencies to prepare for heavy weather conditions in the region. Commanding
officers and participating agencies will train command, control and
communications capabilities, readiness preparation, and personnel in areas
of accountability, disaster preparedness and recovery.
"This Heavy Weather Exercise enables collaborative efforts with our local
and federal partners to improve our communication, preparedness and response when it comes to how we handle and respond to natural disasters in ou
region," said Joint Region Marianas Chief of Staff Capt. Rick Kratzer. "Our
location makes Guam and the Mariana Islands susceptible to typhoons year
round and the annual exercise is just one way we can better train and
prepare our people."
During the training, the NBG emergency alert system, commonly referred to as
the Giant Voice, will be activated. Residents and patrons in surrounding
areas should not be alarmed if they see and hear increased activity
associated with the exercise.
"Typhoon season for the Pacific area is clearly upon us," said JRM Deputy
Operations Officer Frank Balajadia. "This is a chance for us to continue to
hone our coordination and skills in response to natural disasters in our
region, and to collect lessons learned for any potential real-world heavy
weather conditions." (JRM)
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