County, military bases to sign agreement

Pierce County and its military neighbors are about to sign an agreement that they hope will never be used for its intended purpose.

The agreement provides for fast responses to requests for medical assistance in the event of a terrorist attack.

Following Sept. 11, 2001 the county and military determined that new strategies were needed to address the terrorist threat.

A Memorandum of Understanding for medical resources resulted. While motivated by potential terrorism, it is also applicable in responding to natural disasters, according to Pierce County Emergency Management Director Steve Bailey.

The signing ceremony will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 6, in Madigan Army Medical Center’s Letterman Auditorium.