Military training exercise to bring increased helicopter, vehicle activity to Vicksburg

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Residents in Vicksburg can expect to see increased military helicopter and vehicle activity through May 10 as part of a large-scale U.S. Army training exercise involving the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

The Vicksburg Tallulah Regional Airport is one of several key locations across the South being used in the exercise, which tests the division’s ability to conduct long-range air assault operations, coordinate logistical resupply, and execute complex communication strategies.

The training event includes aircraft and personnel from both the 101st Airborne Division, based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and the 82nd Airborne Division from Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While all military training will occur on installations and airfields, local residents may notice increased noise from helicopters and military vehicles traveling to and from staging areas, including in and around Vicksburg.

“This is not an air show or public event,” said Lt. Col. Martin Meiners, spokesperson for the 101st Airborne Division. “We are alerting the public to expect temporary changes in traffic and noise patterns as we conduct vital training. The safety of our Soldiers and surrounding communities remains our top priority.”

Additional locations involved in the exercise include Oxford, Mississippi; Minden and Alexandria, Louisiana. Forward Arming and Refueling Points will be established along the route between Fort Campbell and Fort Johnson, Louisiana.

The Army thanks local officials, the Mississippi National Guard, and residents for their cooperation and support during the operation.