The U.S. Army’s special forces training exercises called Operation Robin Sage that involve Randolph County are taking place through Sept. 5.
The two-week exercises in multiple sites across North Carolina and South Carolina are the final test of the U.S. Special Forces training, according to the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School.
Numerous North Carolina counties are included in the list of areas that might involve the exercises. In addition to Randolph County, they are Avery, Alamance, Anson, Bladen, Brunswick, Cabarrus, Chatham, Columbus, Cumberland, Davidson, Duplin, Guilford, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, Robeson, Rowan, Sampson, Scotland, Stanly, Union, and Wake.
The participants are students at the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg).
These military members act as realistic opposing forces and guerrilla freedom fighters, also known as Pineland’s resistance movement. To add realism of the exercise, civilian volunteers act as role players.
All Robin Sage movements and events have been coordinated with public safety officials throughout the counties where training takes place.
Residents might hear blank gunfire, see occasional flares and military aircraft or vehicles. Controls are in place to ensure there is no risk to the public or property, according to the U.S. Army, according to the information provided.
Residents with concerns should contact local law enforcement officials, who’ll contact exercise control officials.
Training areas and vehicles used during exercises should be clearly labeled.
Questions concerning the exercise should be referred to the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School Public Affairs Office at (910) 432-5703 or by e-mail at [email protected]
