A training exercise involving nearly 6,000 soldiers at Fort Polk’s Joint Readiness Training Center Aug. 7-31 may cause some local traffic congestion, Army officials said.

The exercise, part of a “decisive action training environment rotation,” will involve members of the Air Force, the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the 4th Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group.

“After more than 10 years of war in Iraq and Afghanistan where the Army honed its counterinsurgency skills, Army Soldiers and units are focusing on comprehensive training to meet the challenges of potential future threats, which could include guerrilla, insurgent, criminal and conventional forces operating against U.S. interests in a dynamic, synchronized effort,” reads an Army news release.

“Decisive Action Training Environment rotations expose the training audience to this hybrid threat, woven together in a realistic and unforgiving environment reflective of the complexities posed by potential adversaries in the 21st century.”

Residents should be aware of increased convoy traffic between Fort Polk and England Air Park along La. 28, La. 121 and La. 489. Convoy traffic will be especially concentrated at the intersections of La. 469 and La. 28, La. 469 and La. 8, and La. 117 and Tank Trail Road.

“Residents are urged to exercise caution when approaching or following convoys and do not attempt to pass them, especially at night,” reads the news release.

“The rotation will also incorporate aircraft training, which may bring low-flying aircraft over the DeRidder, Oakdale, Alexandria and Leesville areas.”

(American Press Archives)