Low-flying helicopters, simulated gunfire and controlled explosions may startle San Antonio residents in some areas, including downtown, this week as the U.S. Army conducts military training.
The military did not permit San Antonio officials to disclose exact locations of the training, but designated areas include downtown and central San Antonio, said Michelle Ramos, spokeswoman for the San Antonio Police Department.
Training is set to begin Monday evening at 7 p.m., and will last until 1 a.m. each night through Wednesday, according to Ramos. Residents may see activity as early as 6 p.m., to prepare for the training, and activity as late as 3 a.m. as troops complete training, she said.
However, the City of San Antonio tweeted later Monday afternoon that training in the city would occur through Friday.
The training will consist of air and ground mobility operations and close-quarter combat training to enhance soldiers’ skills by operating in a realistic environment, according to a press release from SAPD. Additionally, the use of local ground provides troops a unique training opportunity, according to the release, and will provide a simulated environment that troops could encounter when they’re deployed.
“The training will not have direct contact with the community; however, residents may see or hear low-flying helicopters, simulated gunfire, and controlled explosions,” said Ramos.
Similar military training in San Antonio has occurred twice before, Ramos said.
Safety precautions will be in place to protect residents and to minimize impact to the community and private property, with SAPD officers working alongside the U.S. Army as the exercises take place, she said.
“The community should not be worried,” said Ramos. “San Antonio is ‘Military City, USA,’ [and] has a long history and strong relationship with the military. Training offered off a military installation offers more realism and greater value.”
