Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. — Offutt Air Force Base and community organizations completed a Mass Accident Response Exercise today, strengthening their ability to respond to a large-scale emergency ahead of the 2026 Defenders of Freedom Air and Space Show.
The exercise simulated an aircraft-related incident involving multiple casualties and required participants to coordinate emergency medical care, incident command, communication, casualty accountability and support services.
“Exercises like this are essential to ensuring our military and community partners can respond together quickly, safely and effectively,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Aaron Gray, Offutt AFB installation commander. “The coordination demonstrated today strengthens our collective readiness and helps ensure we are prepared to protect those attending the air show, as well as the broader Offutt and surrounding communities.”
The exercise brought together Offutt AFB personnel and representatives from the American Red Cross, USO Iowa, local Civil Air Patrol units and the Kansas Veterans Administration. The realistic training environment allowed participants to evaluate procedures, identify strengths and determine areas requiring additional coordination.
Lessons identified during the exercise will be incorporated into emergency plans and future training.
The Defenders of Freedom Air and Space Show is scheduled for Aug. 8–9 at Offutt AFB. The event requires extensive coordination among installation personnel, emergency responders, government agencies and community support organizations.
The exercise was part of Offutt AFB’s continuing efforts to maintain readiness and strengthen relationships with community partners.
