Last night (Feb. 4), ELB contractor Charlie McGrail spotted helicopters flying in an unusual formation over ELB's Towne Center. Some L.A. residents near their city's downtown were alarmed to hear explosions and see a helicopter land on Wilshire Blvd. .
This morning (Feb. 5) LAPD's media relatrions ssection provided LBREPORT.com with the statement below that it says came from the U.S. Army:
[U.S. Army statement text] Date: February 4, 2019
Release Number: 19-0201LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Members of the U.S. Army will conduct military training in the greater Los Angeles and Long Beach areas Feb. 4-9, 2019.
The purpose of the training is to enhance soldier skills by operating in various urban environments and settings.
This training is coordinated with the appropriate state, county, and city officials as well as private property owners. Safety precautions have been implemented to prevent unnecessary risk to both participants and/or area residents and property.
The Los Angeles Police Department met with military representatives and coordinated details of the training that will take place at predetermined locations secured for the training.
Residents may hear sounds associated with the training, including aircraft and weapon simulations. Citizens in close proximity to the areas where the training will take place will be notified prior to the training.
The local terrain and training facilities in Los Angeles provide the Army with unique locations and simulates urban environments the service members may encounter when deployed overseas.
There is no replacement for realistic training. Each location selected enables special operations teams and flight crews to maintain maximum readiness and proficiency, validate equipment and exercise standard safety procedures. The training is essential to ensure service members are fully trained and prepared to defend our nation overseas.
The Army sincerely appreciates the cooperation and understanding of citizens and local businesses in the vicinity of training, and apologizes for any possible disturbance.
In the noon hour, LBPD's PIO says it's awaiting information from LB's Port police on what's taking place. LBREPORT.com will update this story as we learn more [and we wish the Army service members a safe and producive training exercise.].
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