Special Ops Forces to Conduct Exercises in Tom Green County for Three Years

SAN ANGELO, TX -- Tom Green County Commissioners Tuesday approved a letter of support inviting United States Special Operations Forces from Ft. Bragg, NC to conduct training exercises in the county from June 1, 2018 through May 31, 2021.  

County Judge Steve Floyd said he was proud to invite active duty military personnel to conduct training operations in Tom Green County again.  The court voted enthusiastically and unanimously to approved the letter of support and send it to Tom Mead with the US Special Forces Command at Ft. Bragg.  

As we reported earlier, back in 2015 some residents worried about internet rumors that citizens would be rounded up and detained in Walmart stores in what was called Operation Jade Helm.  Those worries were unfounded and Special Operations Forces have conducted exercises annually in the county. Tuesday’s action extends the annual agreement from one year to three years.  

As we reported in 2015, “The training will take place in between Tom Green and Schleicher Counties from July 15 to  Sept. 15. The training is to include special operations forces from different branches of the Department of Defense.  The San Angelo Police Department will also be invited to participate in the training.”

“We feel Texans are supportive of the military, and understand that your state provides the variety of terrain needed for this type of training,” said Tom Mead, US Army Special Operations Command. “During the training period citizens may notice nighttime air traffic, and increased military presence in mixed uniforms.”

“Military has become part of our DNA here in San Angelo, it is not out of the ordinary to see men and women in uniform throughout the community,” said Judge Steve Floyd in 2015. “We are glad to provide the US Army a place to provide important, special training.”