On August 27, 2026, the American Red Cross North Louisiana Chapter joined partners from the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office, Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), and Overton Brooks VA Medical Center for a large-scale emergency response exercise at the Shreveport Regional Airport.

When a large-scale emergency occurs, the ability to support affected individuals and families depends on more than a single organization. It requires strong partnerships, coordinated planning and a commitment to preparedness long before a crisis happens.

The exercise provided an opportunity for participating agencies to strengthen coordination, test response plans and practice delivering support services in a complex disaster scenario. As a key transportation and medical coordination hub, Shreveport plays an important role in supporting emergency operations during major events that may require the movement and care of large numbers of people.

"For the Red Cross, exercises like this are about ensuring we're ready to help families during some of the most challenging moments they may ever face," said Karen McCoy, executive director, American Red Cross North Louisiana Chapter. "Training alongside our partners strengthens relationships, improves coordination and helps ensure a seamless response when communities need us most."

During the exercise, Red Cross teams practiced several critical response functions, including family reunification support, shelter operations and the distribution of essential resources. Participants also worked through scenarios focused on coordinating care and assistance for families while their loved ones receive medical treatment.

While every disaster is different, the Red Cross has a unique role to play in transportation-related emergencies. The organization is designated by the National Transportation Safety Board to provide family care and assistance following aviation disasters. Trained Red Cross volunteers and staff work alongside local, state and federal partners to help meet the immediate needs of survivors and families impacted by these events.

Exercises like the one at Shreveport Regional Airport are a reminder that preparedness is a shared responsibility. By working together before an emergency occurs, healthcare providers, emergency managers, transportation officials, law enforcement agencies and humanitarian organizations can build the partnerships necessary to respond effectively when disaster strikes.