Cablegate: Crisis Management Training -- Dvc Lessons Learned

VZCZCXYZ0010
RR RUEHWEB

DE RUEHMN #0235 1211807
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 301807Z APR 08
FM AMEMBASSY MONTEVIDEO
TO RUEHFSI/DIR FSINFATC
INFO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 8149

UNCLAS MONTEVIDEO 000235

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

DEPT. FOR S/ES-O/CMS, WHA/EX, AND FSI/LMS/CMT

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AEMR AMGT AR ASEC BL CI PA UY
SUBJECT: CRISIS MANAGEMENT TRAINING -- DVC LESSONS LEARNED

REF: FSINFATC 01303

1. Post appreciates the CME we recently received and the
opportunity to provide lessons learned.

2. Comments/answers are keyed to questions A-H in reftel.

A. DVC FORMAT: DVC format was effective and video/audio
quality was good, with the exception of one or two brief
periods of lag. Three hours was a sufficient allocation of
time for the CME.

B. EXERCISE SCENARIO: The scenario was very appropriate for
our post and our findings are being used to bolster our
requests for a physical security upgrade. The DVC format
provided sufficient realism.

C. The controller's interventions were appropriately timed
and helpful.

D. Post has determined we need to improve our communication
capabilities and enhance the DCM's strategic control. We
also plan to map out improved coordination among agencies, to
ensure united sit-reps are sent to Washington.

E. LESSONS LEARNED: Updates to the EAP will now be
submitted electronically using the CEPA database. We intend
to expand our contact lists to be all-inclusive. We've
updated our Embassy skills data bank.

F. TRAINING: The DVC format was fine for the overview
training, but since the Ambassador participated, we would
have liked it to have started on time and stayed within the
allotted duration. Embassy is following up with
duck-and-cover exercises, CPR training, and first aid
training.

G. FREQUENCY OF CMEs: Posts with a higher threat level
should receive the training more often. Once every two years
seems an adequate cycle for CME's at our post, assuming we
stay at the same threat levels.

H. We thank FSI for putting on an excellent program. Kudos!
Matthewman

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