16 JUL – U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Fort Jackson hosted the Fort Jackson Full Scale Exercise (FSE) 2025, a high-intensity training event designed to evaluate the installation’s readiness to respond to a complex, multi-phase domestic terror incident. The exercise, led by ATS as the prime contractor, aimed to strengthen crisis response capabilities across emergency services, crisis communication, public affairs, and family support functions.
ATS spearheaded the year-long planning, design, and execution of the exercise, providing scenario development, simulation modeling, and evaluation. The scenario unfolded with a simulated gate runner breach, a suspicious package, and an escalating active shooter situation inside an elementary school. These events tested Fort Jackson’s emergency response systems, including the activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and the Emergency Family Assistance Center (EFAC).
To enhance realism, ATS produced simulated social media content, fielded mock media and Congressional inquiries, and created dynamic injects using Microsoft Office365 tools and Adobe Photoshop. Public Affairs teams were challenged to manage information flow, counter misinformation, and coordinate effectively across agencies and partners.
The complexity of this exercise tested every aspect of Fort Jackson’s crisis response infrastructure. Through ATS’ design and simulation tools, it enabled Fort Jackson to rigorously evaluate and improve its operational readiness.
Key outcomes included validation of EOC operations, incident command procedures, mass casualty response, and communication with local partners and higher headquarters. The exercise underscored Fort Jackson’s commitment to maintaining mission readiness and protecting its community under challenging circumstances.
