Seabees planning Force Protection Exercise beginning Monday

Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport will participate in force protection exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain beginning Monday.

“Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain is an excellent opportunity for NCBC Gulfport to evaluate and assess existing and new force protection capabilities,” said Capt. Ana Franco, NCBC Gulfport commanding officer. “Keeping our personnel safe is my top priority, and simulating and responding to realistic scenarios is the best way to evaluate and improve our procedures and strengthen our response to any threat that may come our way.”

Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain is an annual two-part field training exercise that ensures Navy security forces maintain readiness. Seabees will be working on tactics, training and procedures to ensure they remain ready and able to defend the nation.

While measures are in place to minimize disruptions within the community, there will be times when the exercise will cause increased traffic around the base or delays in access to the base. Residents may also see or hear security activities associated with the exercise. Seabees are coordinating with local enforcement and first responders to minimize disruption.

The base will post information and updates about the exercise on its Facebook page.