Wyoming National Guard training exercise Planned near Wheatland

By PAO Admin.

WHEATLAND, Wyo. - Residents in Wheatland and parts of Platte County may see increased military helicopter activity as the Wyoming Army National Guard conducts a planned training exercise in coordination with Basin Electric Power Cooperative's Laramie River Station.

The scheduled exercise will occur Wednesday, August 19, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 to 4:00 PM. The exercise will include UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters operating in and around the Wheatland area. Residents may see helicopters flying at lower altitudes or operating near the Laramie River Station during the training.

There is no need for alarm. The activity is part of a scheduled training exercise and is not a response to an actual emergency.

The exercise gives Wyoming National Guard aircrews and Laramie River Station personnel a chance to practice procedures they could use during a real emergency.

Training together before an incident helps organizations understand each other's capabilities. It also improves communication and coordination.

Residents may notice periods of increased helicopter activity and noise while the exercise is underway.

The Wyoming National Guard regularly conducts training across the state to keep Soldiers and Airmen ready to support Wyoming communities during emergencies while maintaining readiness for federal missions.

The Wyoming National Guard and Basin Electric Power Cooperative appreciate the patience and support of Wheatland and Platte County residents during this important training.