RAF MILDENHALL, England --
Breaking the usual everyday workplace noise, an ear-piercing alarm starts sounding, making those nearby stop and pay attention wondering what just happened. Thankfully, instead of warning of a possible attack, it's just Airmen from the 100th Air Refueling Wing Command Post conducting the weekly test to ensure notifications are reaching all Team Mildenhall personnel.
It typically happens at the same time on a weekly basis, accompanied by loud sirens taking control of the room it continuously playing over and over until the user gives the alert attention and finally rids it from the screen.
The AtHoc system, alongside the “giant voice,’ is used to disperse information out to the base populace, and when directed, the system pushes notifications to Team Mildenhall’s members who have a common access card.
Earlier this year, RAF Mildenhall updated its AtHoc system to help command post work more efficiently.
“A lot of the update has to do with what command post sees on our end,” said Tech. Sgt. Annicah Duenas, 100th Air Refueling Wing Command Post operations NCO in charge. “AtHoc was given a facelift and looks completely different from the old version. Much of the software update is geared towards the admin user, which consolidates options and adds capabilities we did not have on the old version.”
Users receive notifications in a variety of ways: through a desktop pop-up, emails, text messages or a phone call. According to the base recall plan, it is mandatory for AtHoc users, both military and civilians, to update their information, with a minimum of both their work email and phone.
Updating profile information for individuals is a simple process. To update, click on the arrow near the bottom right close to where the clock is, and a small purple globe should pop up. Right click on the globe and select ‘update my info.’
“The purpose of the weekly AtHoc test message is to provide leaders situational awareness on individuals lacking information on their profile,” Duenas said. “That way we can reach the entire base populace in the event of an emergency situation.”
For more information, contact the command post at DSN 238-2121 or 01638 542121.