Residents of Palm Bay, particularly those living in the northwest area near an old military annex, should prepare for some noise over the coming days. Officials from Patrick Space Force Base have announced that a series of training exercises will take place, resulting in small explosions and gunfire sounds.
The exercise, which will continue through Sunday, involves approximately 90 cadets from Florida Tech’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. In an advisory, Space Launch Delta 45 reassured the community that there is no cause for concern regarding the noise levels.
The training is centered at the U.S. Space Force Malabar Annex, a two-square-mile facility tucked away off Minton Road, which includes a small airfield and is largely forested. The activities will focus on ordnance testing and simulated explosives, where cadets will utilize blank ammunition while engaging in various training scenarios, including reconnaissance, ambush tactics, and rope bridge construction. The operations will run daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Originally established shortly after World War II, the annex has experienced a period of dormancy recently, allowing local wildlife to thrive in the area. However, it has not been entirely inactive, as it was previously used for training exercises earlier in the spring.
This training presents not only an opportunity for the cadets to gain valuable hands-on experience but also emphasizes the ongoing partnership between military installations and local communities. Ensuring the residents are informed about the activities helps maintain a good relationship and mitigates any concerns that may arise from the noise.
Overall, this training exercise highlights the commitment to preparing our future leaders in the armed forces while ensuring safety and awareness within the surrounding communities.