The MD Team Will be Stationed at Ft. Meade

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Benjamin L. Cardin today announced that the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has completed its certification of the Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team (WMD-CST) of the Maryland National Guard.  This team possesses the skills, training and equipment to assist civil authorities in responding to a domestic weapon of mass destruction attack.

Congress has authorized the selection and training of a total of 55 WMD-CSTs.  Location of the teams is based on a threat assessment analysis involving population density, port and coastal security challenges, location of DOD installations, protection of critical infrastructure and the presence of symbolic national symbols. The teams consist of 22 highly skilled, full-time members of the Army and Air National Guard and will be under the command and control of the governor. 

“Sept. 11 changed our lives forever and we must be prepared to meet any terrorist event that may arise.  Maryland contains critical infrastructure, including the Port of Baltimore and important military and intelligence installations.  We also are in close proximity to our Nation’s Capital.  Because of all these factors, we must be ready to meet any challenge,” said Rep. Cardin who has fought for greater homeland security funding for Maryland since 9/11.
  
Currently, 32 WMD-CSTs have been certified nationwide.  The Maryland team will be stationed at Ft. Meade.

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