A series of military training exercises in Southern California have raised concerns among residents due to the noise and activity associated with the operations. The exercises, which included simulated urban warfare, took place at various locations, including an empty hospital in Pasadena and a mall in the San Gabriel Valley, during nighttime hours. Residents reported hearing gunfire and seeing helicopters overhead, prompting complaints about the disturbances.
City officials, including Pasadena City Council member Rick Cole, expressed frustration over the lack of prior notification about the exercises. Cole noted that the training occurred in residential areas, which had previously been affected by a significant fire. Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo stated that while the police were informed about the training, city officials received minimal details and were unable to notify the public until shortly before the exercises began.
A military officer involved in the training explained that the exercises were designed for highly trained soldiers who require realistic environments for their operations. Despite the military's notification to local police, city officials were not informed until just hours before the drills commenced. A notice was sent to residents shortly before the exercises began, leading to questions about the communication process between the military and local authorities.
In response to the disturbances, city officials in Long Beach and the City of Industry also alerted residents about similar training exercises occurring in their areas, advising them of potential noise until the early morning hours. Videos from residents showed the military activity, including helicopters and simulated gunfire, contributing to the unease in the affected neighborhoods.