National Guard MP Exercise in Houlton

If you're wondering why there's an increased military presence in Houlton don't be alarmed it's just a drill.

The Maine Army National Guard 488th Military Police Company is conducting a joint military support to civil authorities exercise in Houlton, on June 11-12, 2014.

The exercise will test the unit’s ability to respond to a scenario requiring it to partner with law enforcement and civil authorities.

The exercise is part of the units two week annual training June 6-20 and will be conducted at several locations statewide. The exercise includes the use of military vehicles and helicopters. The annual event for the unit will test skills they have trained on throughout the year.

Darren Woods, Aroostook County Emergency Management Director stated “We are excited to see this culminating exercise and regularly plan exercises with the Maine Army National Guard. Giving soldiers, civilian first responders, federal and international partners an opportunity to strengthen relationships ahead of an incident is critical to our success.”

The unit will work with various agencies during the exercise including Aroostook County Emergency Management Agency, Maine State Police, Aroostook County Sheriff’s Department, and US Customs and Border Protection as well as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian Border Service Agencies.

For more information contact Maj. Michael Steinbuchel at (207) 430-5759.