Eglin makes changes to GIANT VOICE procedures Published Dec. 11, 2008 96th Communications Squadron EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 96th Communications Squadron recently performed repair work on Eglin's GIANT VOICE system. More than 14 speakers were replaced and nine positions repaired. As soon as the repair work was complete, phones began ringing. Many local on- and off-base residents noticed the successful repair--particularly the side-effect of increased volume. The volume on Eglin's GIANT VOICE system is set in the interest of public safety; but in light of recent repairs, the speakers give off the impression that volume levels were raised significantly. In an effort to be good neighbors with both our local community and base residents, reveille, retreat and taps will be played on an abbreviated schedule of Monday through Friday (no longer on weekends), and at a lower volume. In order to ensure weather warnings and public safety announcements made through the GIANT VOICE are heard, the volume for these warnings will not be reduced. This should balance our intent to be good neighbors and our requirement for mass notification. During Hurricane Gustav in September 2008, Eglin proper and the surrounding communities were warned of seven tornados that struck this area. Even though two housing units on Eglin were destroyed as a result of the tornados that touched down, all family members took heed of the GIANT VOICE warnings and sought immediate shelter, thus no one was harmed. "Our ultimate requirement is a safe environment," said Col. Bruce McClintock, 96th Air Base Wing commander, "but these changes should help us balance that, while still maintaining our military traditions and continuing to be good neighbors."