National Guard Leader Explains Upcoming Grand Rapids Military Operations

The Michigan National Guard will be conducting urban drills in the Grand Rapids area later this month. Lt. Col. Raymond Stemitz explains how these will be carried out.

The drills, known as Operation Northern Exposure will take place June 23-27 and will be centered around a fictional dirty bomb explosion in the area, and will involve around 1000 soldiers.

The exercise is unlikely to cause much disruption during those days, however, the public may notice more military vehicles in the area, as well as helicopters bringing crews to and from the sites.

The Guard recently conducted similar drills in Battle Creek without incident.

Lt. Col. Stemitz talked to the Grand Rapids Information Network about the drills.

Specifically Stemitz addresses:

* The drills are designed to practice local community support.

* The scenario is based around a mock nuclear device being detonated in the area. There is nothing to indicate that GR would be a target for such a device.

* The event will take place June 23-27, centered around the Butterworth Yardways facility and the Crestwood Elementary School in Kentwood.

* Military vehicles will be very visible around the area on those days.

* Why the drills weren't conducted on military grounds in Grayling.

* There will also be helicopter traffic in the area as well.

* For more information visit the Michigan National Guard web page and Facebook page.