Security Forces tests response to violent protests
By 1st Lt. Jerald Black
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- An exercise anti-war protest here started out peacefully March 25, but quickly became violent when base volunteers posing as protestors pelted security forces members and bystanders with simulated Molotov cocktails and rocks.
"The exercise demonstrated security forces' ability to provide the appropriate response to aggression from protestors," said Master Sgt. Gregory Powell, superintendent of security forces administration. "Anti-war protestors have been peaceful at Yokota, but it's imperative that we train for the unpredictable situations."
Despite a steady rain, protestors feverishly chanted anti-war comments and hoisted signs that matched. Protestors lobbed a simulated rock at a public affairs officer as he attempted to receive their petition to protest.
Three security forces members quickly moved in to rescue the victim, who suffered a simulated head injury. According to Sergeant Powell, as they did so, more rocks and two Molotov cocktails were thrown.
"Our goal was to stand our ground during the exercise, but we were rushed by protestors, forcing us to arrest the aggressors and take them into custody, he said. "We stopped their attacks and restored peace with minimal force." (PACAFNS)
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