Garrison exercise tests first responders during simulated earthquake

*ALL INJURIES ARE SIMULATED*

VICENZA, Italy - U.S. Army Garrison Italy and Italian first responders teamed up recently for an emergency exercise simulating a major earthquake striking the Vicenza Military Community and triggering secondary incidents across multiple installations.

The joint drill strengthened coordination between U.S. and Italian agencies and reinforced readiness for real-world emergencies.

"Exercises like this are essential because they allow us to apply and assess our emergency management capabilities in real time," said Col. Vaughn Strong, USAG Italy commander. "Training side by side with our Italian fire, medical and law enforcement partners strengthens the interoperability we rely on to protect this community."

The scenario began at 7:30 a.m., when an earthquake in the Veneto region affected Caserma Miotto in Longare. The installation operations center alerted garrison leaders, prompting coordination with emergency services, public works and tenant units. The Emergency Operations Center activated within 20 minutes.

As first responders worked at Caserma Miotto, the exercise escalated at Caserma Ederle's Golden Lion Conference Center, where a simulated gas explosion caused multiple injuries. Military police and firefighters arrived quickly, recovering role-playing Soldiers covered in moulage. Italian fire services joined U.S. crews to treat 16 injured participants.

The Emergency Family Assistance Center opened at 9 a.m., offering support at Army Community Service. ACS and the Java Café closed during the drill, and community alerts advised residents to avoid affected areas.

"Our shared goal is simple," Strong said. "We work to ensure we can contain emergencies quickly and keep our Soldiers, families and workforce safe."