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Secretary Of The Navy Visits NAS Pensacola, Praises First Responders, Holds Agency Brief
December 11, 2019
Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith visited Naval Air Station Pensacola Tuesday following the active shooter incident on December 6.
During the visit, Modly and Smith praised first responders from the base and the surrounding community for their response to the situation and the care they’re providing for all who are affected by this incident.
“I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the brave men and women for what we ask you to do every day,” said Modly. “Your immense bravery in the line of fire undoubtedly saved the lives of many. Today, as a Navy we grieve for those who were lost and we continue to stand by those who were wounded.”
Department of the Navy patrol officers and master-at-arms with the Naval Security Force were the first responders on the scene and confronted the shooter. NSF was joined by officers from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office who assisted with the eventual takedown of the shooter. In the end, three sailors and the shooter were killed and eight individuals were injured.
“Our Security Force responded immediately and their quick reaction prevented the situation from being far worse,” said Lt. Steve Pakola, security officer, NAS Pensacola. “We train for these types of situations and their performance was exceptional. They displayed unbelievable bravery when confronted with the shooter, but they performed their job without thought of the risk they faced.”
Following a short tour of the base, the pair joined members of the FBI, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, NCIS, and NAS Pensacola for a leadership brief. The brief was meant to increase interagency communication, coordination, and support for one another.
Pictured: Capt. Tim Kinsella Naval Air Station commanding officer introduces the acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas B. Modly, o Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Holly Barber, one of the first responders of the active shooter incident on NAS Pensacola. SECNAV visited the base on Tuesday. Photo Chief Mass Communication Specialist Dan Mennuto/U.S. Navy for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
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