Solid Curtain 2007 has been developed to enhance the training and readiness of Naval security personnel and is a regularly scheduled exercise. It is not in response to any specific threat.

Disruptions to normal base operations will be limited; we do not intend to impact our ability to perform our normal mission operations. However, there will be times when the conduct of the exercise may cause increased traffic or delays in base access. Area residents may also see increased military activity associated with the exercise.

On Thursday, Sept. 20, 9-11 a.m. EDT, exercise events will drive all continental U.S. activities to increase their Force Protection Condition. This will involve stricter access restrictions, increased levels of security, and increased readiness. It is anticipated that this elevation in Force Protection Condition will be maintained for approximately 12-15 hours.

Specifically here at Pax River, our security personnel will be actively involved in the exercise throughout the week. Though our base population in general may see increased activity associated with the exercise, we can expect to experience a fairly normal week — with the exception of Thursday, Sept. 20. On that day, please be prepared for the elevated Force Protection Condition at some point after 9 a.m.. Our Auxiliary Security Force (ASF) will be activated⁄recalled and there will be a notable increase in activity by our security personnel, particularly at our Entry Control Points and perimeter areas. We can expect Gates 2 and 3 to close and then reopen after a short period (approximately 15 minutes) to exercise our ability to secure those entry control points. Gate 1 will remain open.

Those entering the base after the elevated Force Protection Condition starts — again, some time after approximately 9 a.m. Thursday — can expect ID checks for all occupants of all vehicles (no exceptions) and 100 percent inspection of all commercial vehicles. These procedures will also be tailored to include Webster Field and Navy Recreation Center Solomons. Please plan and be prepared for potential delays at the Gates⁄ Entry Control Points during this period on Thursday.

This information is provided for awareness and planning purposes. Information will also be promulgated through, All-Hands E-mail and Electronic Sign Boards. For those that desire more information, there will also be a Solid Curtain 2007 information briefing open to representatives of all commands at NAS Pax River, Webster Field and NRC Solomons at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, in Room 101 of the HRO Building (Bldg. 1489).

Please remember: despite the fact we are conducting an exercise, if you witness something that appears unusual or suspicious — and are uncertain whether it is an exercise event — don’t hesitate to contact security or duty personnel.

Points of contact for Solid Curtain 2007 at Pax River include: Force Protection Officer, Chief Master At Arms Brian Jones (the chief force protection officer) at 301-342-3901, and Public Affairs Officer John Romer at 301-757-6748.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and great support. This exercise is key to our goal of continuing to hone and improve our security and force protection posture and readiness to achieve our top priority, which is to ensure the safety, security and welfare of our people and assets. As always, SAFETY IS FIRST AND PARAMOUNT in the conduct of this exercise and in everything we do here at the world’s finest Naval Air Station.