MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Air Force Global Strike Command conducted its first-ever Response Task Force exercise at Malmstrom Air Force Base June 1-4.

"We are training and preparing for a variety of contingency scenarios to ensure our readiness for any situation that may arise," said Gary Oldham, Air Force Global Strike Command's RTF branch chief. "We know we may be called on a moment's notice to help one of our bases respond."

The "table-top" exercise, Incident Accident Plan development process and press conference were among the main events required to fulfill the exercise's objectives, he said.

"I think the team was very committed and focused, achieving the exercise objectives with professionalism and esprit de corps," said Brig. Gen. Everett Thomas, Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center and Response Task Force commander, who has special training in the National Incident Management System as well as the Air Force Incident Management System.

Previously, multiple major commands were responsible for providing and training their own RTFs, however, as the principle nuclear major command, AFGSC now has responsibility for and jurisdiction of incidents in the continental United States.

The training for AFGSC Headquarters' 35-person RTF team provided an opportunity for experts from the major command, wing and other participating organizations to exercise contingency checklists and procedures in response to a simulated accident.

"This was an excellent opportunity for the designated members to establish the RTF program for Air Force Global Strike Command," General Thomas said. "We take seriously the responsibility of ensuring safe, secure and effective combat ready forces, and this is just one of many ways we accomplish that mission."

The exercise scenario involved the simulated collision of a commercial gas tanker and a government vehicle carrying hazardous cargo near the base.

Malmstrom Air Force Base's home unit, the 341st Missile Wing, provided the initial response to the exercise incident and effectively responded to the situation, according to General Thomas.

"From the initial response to the management of the entire exercise scenario, the 341st Missile Wing's performance was superb," he said.