Slide show by Mary Davidson
Stafford County is pleased to once again host one of the world’s largest physical security/force protection-related equipment demonstrations at the Stafford Regional Airport on May 17-19, during the eighth Force Protection Equipment Demonstration (FPED) VIII.
Almost 600 vendors with more than 3,000 technologically advanced products are setting up shop at the airport so that physical security/force protection professionals can touch, feel and see the latest in security equipment technology.
“This marks the third time that Stafford County is hosting FPED, and every time it gets better,” said Speaker of the House of Delegates William J. Howell, who visited the show Wednesday. “Stafford County has a growing business base of defense contractors who may find many resources at this event to contribute to their company’s success and make them more competitive on a global scale.”
Stafford has hosted FPED since 2007. The event is sponsored by the Department of Defense’s Physical Security Equipment Action Group, Department of Energy, and the Technical Support Working Group. Personnel from the Department of Defense, federal departments and agencies, state and local law enforcement, other first responders, corrections agencies and foreign visitors attend the demonstration. Their presence in Stafford – as well as the vendors at the show – makes a significant contribution to the local economy.
“FPED is a tremendous success for Stafford,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Mark Dudenhefer. “Vendors and visitors spend millions of dollars in our hotels, restaurants and stores before, during and after the show. FPED is a real boon to our economy and we work hard to keep its organizers coming back every year.”
The Stafford Regional Airport Authority began preparing for FPED more than a year ago. Other Stafford agencies are also assisting. The Department of Economic Development is staffing a booth at the event and offering information about Stafford to visitors. The Fire and Rescue Department is providing first-aid stations and emergency response personnel. The Sheriff’s Office is assisting with security and traffic control.
The show runs through 4:30 p.m. today.
-Press release
