Elmendorf leaders coordinate Redoubt response

  • Published
  • 3rd Wing Public Affairs
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Elmendorf officials have been preparing for the possible eruption of Mount Redoubt since January. And in the hours since it erupted March 22, senior leaders are on full alert.

"We've been very well prepared to react to this expected eruption," said Col. Thomas Bergeson, 3rd Wing commander. "We're closely coordinating our response procedures with local civil authorities. We've taken prudent precautions and have sheltered some aircraft, but our mission continues."

Elmendorf's airfield is still operational at this time. While ash fall from the Mount Redoubt eruption is not immediate, senior officials will continue to evaluate the threat as the day continues. The height of the eruption cloud is estimated to be 50,000 feet above sea level.

Planes are being sheltered in place and plans are being made to close the airfield here if necessary. There are approximately 60 aircraft on base including F-22, F-15, C-17, E-3, C-12 and a 747 commercial aircraft.

For more information, call the Elmendorf AFB straight talk line at 907-552-0101, 1-866-237-5182, or visit www.elmendorf.af.mil.

Further information will be released as it becomes available.