Hill AFB Giant Voice system upgrade improves emergency preparedness

  • Published
  • By Richard Essary
  • 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

The Hill AFB Giant Voice system has been significantly upgraded to enhance emergency preparedness and improve communication capabilities across the installation.

The new system, accepted from the contractor last month after extensive testing, has reduced the total number of Giant Voice stacks from 32 to 14 while providing more audible coverage across the installation.

“The Giant Voice system serves as a critical tool for emergency alerts and notifications at Hill Air Force Base,” said Master Sgt. Jessica Duckett, superintendent for the Hill AFB Command Post. “Its primary purpose is to disseminate information during various situations such as natural disasters, active shooter events, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents.”

The upgraded system includes new speakers designed to produce audible tones and messages at greater distances. Additionally, the system has improved backup power, with all stacks equipped with solar panels and batteries for sustained operations.

The new Giant Voice stacks also allow for streamlined maintenance by placing equipment cabinets at walk-up level and incorporating modular components. This setup enables quicker repairs without the need for specialized vehicles and equipment.

All maintenance tasks will be carried out by the 75th Communications and Information Systems Directorate’s radio maintenance work center, said Andrew Fletcher, the directorate's IT project manager.

He said due to the new speakers and improved technology, reducing from 32 to 14 stacks will enhance system performance and offer greater flexibility than before.

“When an alert is generated through the Giant Voice system, it is broadcast to all speaker stacks connected to the command post via an encrypted radio network,” Fletcher said. “The command post can then select to broadcast to all stacks or specific zones depending on the situation.”

Beyond emergency alerts, the Giant Voice system is used to play reveille and To the Colors at 7:30 a.m., retreat and the National Anthem at 5 p.m., and taps at 9 p.m. When heard, both military personnel and civilians should render the appropriate customs and courtesies.

These ceremonies help foster a sense of duty and camaraderie among base personnel and are common practice at military installations.

When activated, people are advised to pay close attention to Giant Voice alerts and follow the instructions provided.

“The Giant Voice system upgrade is a significant investment in Hill's emergency preparedness capabilities,” Duckett said. “By improving coverage, audio clarity, and reliability, the system will continue to have an important role in protecting the safety and security of the base community.”