Laughlin exercise slated for Nov. 13 Published Nov. 12, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Jimmie D. Pike 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin Air Force Base and departments from its surrounding communities are slated to perform a major accident response exercise along Highway 90, inside the Del Rio city limits, beginning about 8 a.m. Nov. 13. Laughlin officials will coordinate with Del Rio Police Department, Del Rio Fire Department, U.S. Border Patrol and Val Verde Sheriff Department to practice executing of emergency management after an accident, explained Maj. Jacob Johnson, 47th Flying Training Wing Wing Inspection Team chief. "The purpose for this exercise is to test our readiness and our ability to handle any situation that comes our way," said Johnson, "The exercise will also test our ability to work with Del Rio Police, Emergency Services and other departments from Del Rio and Val Verde County." The ability to work with other off-base agencies is essential to effective emergency management, and to protecting lives and equipment, explained Johnson. "If civilians see flashing lights in the exercise area, they should know that we are doing an exercise to maintain readiness in the event something like this should happen," said Johnson. "There should be no cause for alarm, but civilians should be aware police may be directing traffic in some areas." Leadership withholds exact location to ensure emergency responders coordinate with the proper agencies and follow proper procedures during the exercise. During the exercise if anyone sees or hears anything that causes concern as to whether or not the events are part of the exercise, please contact the 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs office at (830)298-5262.