A POD, or Point of Distribution, exercise is a major function of nearly all State Defense Forces. It involves soldiers settings up emergency distribution locations throughout the state to facilitate the distribution of food, water and medical supplies to citizens. Such a mission became paramount during the recent Covid-19 pandemic when retail stores had difficulty keeping food shelves stocked.
Recently The 88th Area Command (Formerly known as The 88th Brigade) held an exercise to simulate a POD mission. The soldiers tested how rapidly they can setup distribution lanes and how quickly they can hand out supplies to individuals and vehicles. POD’s are designed to service large segments of a states population so speed is crucial in such missions.
During the exercise service members assumed dual roles as first responders and civilians and enacted various situations that could arise during an actual disaster/emergency. Troops worked together as a team to distribute essential items to a simulated civilian population. The PODEX allowed service members to practice and refine their skills in a controlled environment and was a vital component in the ongoing efforts to ensure that the 88th Area Command is ready to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters. The exercise provided a valuable opportunity for service members to work together as a team, hone their skills, and prepare for the unexpected.
Service members from the New York Guard 88th Area Command engaged in a Point of Distribution Exercise (PODEX) on Saturday, April 18th, 2023, held at Eisenhower Park, in Nassau County. The exercise was designed to simulate distribution scenarios in disaster/emergency situations and to prepare service members to respond effectively.During the exercise, service members assumed dual roles as first responders and civilians, enacting various situations that could arise during an actual disaster/emergency. The goal was to ensure readiness and preparedness in addressing any contingencies that may occur.The distribution scenarios were set up at Eisenhower Park, where service members worked together as a team to distribute essential items to a simulated civilian population. By participating in the PODEX, service members were able to practice and refine their skills in a controlled environment.The exercise was a vital component in the ongoing efforts to ensure that the 88th Area Command is ready to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters. It provided a valuable opportunity for service members to work together as a team, hone their skills, and prepare for the unexpected.(Photos by New York Guard SPC Charles Garelick)If you are interested in receiving an exciting training experience to help serve New York, find out more at www.nyginfo.com.To be contacted by a recruiter, fill out the form here: https://dmna.ny.gov/nyg/request/
Source: New York Guard
