10/26/2026
Orange County RACES Member Supports Regional Communications Exercise
Orange County RACES member Greg Hatzis recently represented Orange County Emergency Services during a regional communications exercise in Erie County, serving as an evaluator and technical resource in his capacity as a New York State credentialed Auxiliary Communicator (AUXCOM).
Greg worked alongside Erie County RACES/AUXCOM members, providing guidance on communications planning, radio operations and the use of Winlink to transmit Incident Command System (ICS) forms. He also helped demonstrate how auxiliary communicators integrate with public safety agencies under the ICS structure during an active incident.
Hosted by the Western New York Interoperable Communications Consortium (WNY ICC), in partnership with NYS DHSES, the exercise brought together communications professionals from across Western New York to coordinate operations during a simulated missing child search. Participants established an Incident Command Post and two forward command posts using regional communications vehicles.
Orange County's participation highlights the importance of regional partnerships, shared expertise and continued training in all disciplines to strengthen emergency communications capabilities across New York State.