Next week, tourists arriving in Alaska’s capital will witness a rare sight of emergency crews in hazmat suits near Juneau’s cruise docks and the State Capitol. The military exercise operations ORCA begins on June 9 and involves a large-scale simulation of a terrorist attack involving weapons of mass destruction.
Lt. Col. Brett Haker, commander of the 103rd Civil Support Team, said this year marks the first time Juneau has hosted the exercise. Officials chose the city because of its political significance and its busy tourism season, which sees over a million cruise ship visitors annually.
From June 9 through 12, authorities will close streets on three sides of the Capitol building, though it will remain open. Juneau Police will manage traffic and public access as agencies carry out the simulated attack, which includes a mock scenario involving Russia-based terrorists. Crews will stage part of the simulation on a houseboat near Juneau’s bustling waterfront. Vehicles will appear civilian but carry emergency lights and distinct blue tones similar to the Air Force’s.
Roughly 100 personnel, including the FBI, US Coast Guard, US Border Patrol, and Alaska National Guard members, will participate. Additional support will come from fire departments, local police, the Tlingit and Haida Central Council, and National Guard units from other states.
Military cargo planes will also bring equipment and participants for the exercise. Haker praised Captain Kyle Rehberg for leading the planning effort but emphasized the exercise’s broader purpose.
