Training exercise: Explosion at Sunny Point

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) – The North Carolina National Guard and US Coast Guard are collaborating with federal, state and local response agencies as they take part in a series of protection exercise scenarios.

One part of the annual Point Defender anti-terrorism exercise took place at Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point.  It is designed to hone the security and response skills of the men and women serving the country.

Here's the scenario: An unknown chemical has leaked into the air as a result of an explosion at Sunny Point.  Emergency responders must determine what the chemical is and help all the people involved.

Several soldiers from the Army National Guard are acting as civilians in this exercise.  Fake blood gushed from their wounds, many were injured with missing limbs and others were part of the mass casualties.

All of the response agencies have to work together to handle the severe trauma situation.

Another part of Point Defender 2011 took place on the water so the Coast Guard can respond to a different simulated explosion and work on improving maritime security in the Southport Area.

Finally, local emergency management officials are also taking place in the exercise, and are gathered at New Hanover County's government complex to respond to terrorism drills.

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