RAPID CITY, S.D. – Ellsworth Air Force Base announced its firefighters will conduct live-fire training exercises today, Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Base and local area residents, particularly those in Rapid City and throughout the Black Hills of South Dakota, may notice significant plumes of black smoke emanating from the base during this period.
These exercises are a critical component of the ongoing training for Ellsworth Air Force Base’s fire protection teams. Such realistic scenarios are vital for maintaining readiness and ensuring the proficiency of firefighters in responding to a variety of emergency situations.
Ellsworth Air Force Base routinely conducts training to ensure personnel are prepared for any contingency.
