War games people play

Neighbors of Hanscom Air Force Base shouldn't be alarmed next Thursday if they see a bit of smoke or hear some commotion coming from the facility. It'll just be the practice version of war, not the real thing.

Military officials have announced that Hanscom will be conducting exercises on May 22 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday, May 23, from 6 a.m. to noon. The event will involve several military scenarios, including mock attacks in an area of the base known as called Camp Patriot.

Air Force spokesman Kevin Gilmartin said that officials do not anticipate that any overly loud or alarming sounds will travel outside the base area, but said that residents may notice smoke or hear some noise.

Anyone who has concerns or questions during the drills is urged to call the base at 781-377-4467, officials said.

-- John Guilfoil