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Andersen Defenders conduct active shooter training

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cierra Presentado
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  The 36th Security Forces Squadron conducted their first active shooter training of the year at Andersen schools Jan. 18, 2014, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.

January's training was geared towards familiarizing and teaching Airmen how to react and perform in the event an active shooter situation occurs at one of the schools said Tech. Sgt. Ollie Bradley, 36th SFS unit training instructor.

The active program is conducted over a 12-month period, with each month's training held at various facilities on base such as the base exchange, commissary, theatre, child development center and medical group.

"We want our defenders to be ready for anything, although we haven't had any real world active shooter incidents, it's still important to for them to know how to respond appropriately," Bradley said. "As an instructor for this program, I am responsible for making sure the defenders receive proper training and that they are confident and ready to protect our children."

Training instructors for the active shooter program not only train the defenders, but also the faculty and staff of both Andersen Department of Defense Education Activity schools. After receiving basic active shooter training the teachers are then able to inform the children of basic procedures such as how to barricade doors and hide.

"This was an awesome opportunity for the unit to get familiar with the layout of the school complex, this training would not have been accomplished without support from our DoDEA partners," said Maj. Michael Gallucci, 36th SFS commander. "The defenders did a great job, and with the exceptional teachings from the instructors, rest assured our defenders trained and ready."

The entire security forces unit will receive training each month at different locations on base. It is important that each SFS Airman is familiar with all the facilities on the installation, Bradley said.  All airmen work together on the same level regardless of prior experience or rank.

"This is my first active shooter training since I've been in the military; with the teachings and the actual training I've received so far, I feel that I am mentally prepared to handle an active shooter situation here at the school," said Airman Christopher Abrego, 36th SFS installation entry controller. "I am held to the same standards and I hold the same responsibilities as my team whether they are a senior airman or Tech Sgt., we all work towards the same mission."

The 36th SFS advises that Andersen Airmen and their families be familiar with active shooter protocols.

"Our defenders train day and night to safely and effectively do our job as first responders. Our priority of life comes after the families of Andersen," Bradley said. "We are trained and ready at a moment's notice to respond to high risk situations and emergencies."

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