Captain’s Column
If you were on board the base or watching the news on Monday, Oct. 7, you are probably aware that we had another incident at our gates.
An individual attempted to gain unauthorized access and was ultimately apprehended by our outstanding and professional security forces.
The suspect was armed, which elevated the threat level posed, but our team, which included both Navy and Army personnel supported by Corpus Christi police, were able to apprehend the suspect without injury.
Their adherence to procedures and their judgment under pressure kept a dangerous situation from turning lethal and ensured the safety of all the employees and families on the base.
We are reviewing every detail from the incident in an effort to learn all that we can and to be even more prepared for whatever comes next.
I wanted to pass along a few tips for everyone who might find themselves in a similar emergency on our base in the future.
1) Never assume “it must be another drill.” Some people on the base heard the commotion and at first thought that we must be conducting another drill. I think it’s important to always assume it’s real until proven otherwise.
2) Shelter In Place means just that. We had more than a few people on base walking around or standing in parking lots during this real emergency. Not only were they exposed and vulnerable to the armed suspect, some of these individuals triggered a Security force response, drawing critically needed patrolmen away from their search.
3) Get connected. Know your tools for gaining information quickly, whether it’s the giant voice speakers, your chain of command, the command Facebook page, or the AtHoc network alerts.
4) Avoid distracting security forces. We had individuals approach the South Gate during the lockdown asking security personnel when the gates would be reopened. During an actual emergency, any distraction to our security forces degrades their ability to communicate with each other and react to a situation. It’s best in these situations to remain in place and await further instructions. I know these events impact many people’s schedules, but the safety and security of all those who live and work on NASCC are our top priority.
5) Muster with your chain of command. Mustering assists us in determining if any personnel are in harm’s way.
I hope this event reminds us all of three things. The first is that this base is protected by outstanding professionals who deserve our gratitude for their hard work and long hours keeping us safe.
The second is that a threat can strike at any time, requiring us all to be vigilant. And the last reminder is that we all have a role in an emergency, and we must all know our part so that we do not act in a way that increases the risk for our security forces.