ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill.- Security is not a new subject when pertaining to the Army.

Since the Chattanooga Shooting, nearly a year ago that took the lives of four marines and a sailor, many have wondered how military personnel will protect themselves and their equipment against domestic threats.

The Army Reserve’s Physical Security Training Program trains units on procedures and proactive measures to maintain security of their personnel and sensitive items.

“This training will certify soldiers to support other units in their physical security program,” explained Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Glenn, Physical Security and Anti-terrorism NCO, 85th Support Command.

The 85th Support Command, based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, hosted the Army Reserve’s two-day training event. This program trained soldiers and civilians from more than 10 Army Reserve units on the proper procedures to ensure their personnel and equipment are secure, both overseas and stateside.

Security of equipment and personnel maintains readiness, and according to Larry Frady, physical security inspector for the 88th Regional Support Command, that security training is particularly important for reserve units.

“As National Guard and Reserve soldiers you’re typically embedded in the community instead of an active installation where you have controlled perimeters and controlled access,” explained Frady. “Physical security on the reserve side is a lot more important I believe.”

Lt. Col. Jason Hunt, G3, chief of training at the 85th Support Command shared that the training was crucial to maintaining readiness with the protection of soldiers and civilian personnel assigned there.

“This protects the soldiers through the facilities, and (ensures) all security requirements are met,” said Hunt. “Especially when it comes to arms rooms and sensitive items which are critical in a wartime mission.”

Staff Sgt. Dave Mercado, Battalion Operations Sergeant, 327th Military Police Battalion, felt the training was beneficial to his awareness and upcoming tasks.

“It set me up for success for the physical (security) inspection coming up. It gave me a refresher of the expectations,” explained Mercado. “It prepared me more and broadened my knowledge of security.”

 After two days of training, the participants completed an exam to ensure they understood their acquired knowledge in order to return to their respective units to train and prepare should they be called for action.