VIDEO-JUST ASK SHANE: Why are Military Helicopters Flying Around Hanfo - NBC Right Now/KNDO/KNDU Tri-Cities, Yakima, WA |

RICHLAND, WA - We got a handful of emails and Facebook messages Monday night from viewers who heard helicopters flying over their homes.  Paul asks, "What's up with all the military helicopters that were flying around in the West Richland and Hanford areas last night?"

Well, after a string of seven or eight phone calls,  I finally found out that U.S. Army Rangers from Joint Base Lewis-McChord are conducting a military training exercise near the HAMMER training facility north of Richland.  The exercises include Chinook helicopters, and the training is designed to test the Rangers' combat skills in a simulated urban environment.

These training exercises will continue through Friday, so don't be surprised if you hear the helicopters again over the next few nights.  The Rangers will be using simulated munitions and some small explosives, which may cause some loud noises.  The U.S. Army says they want to thank the community for their support during the exercises, and their understanding for any inconvenience the training may cause.

Remember, if you've got a question about something going on in our community... send it my way.  You can reach me in the newsroom at (509) 737-6738, or send me an email at JustAskShane@nbcrightnow.com

http://www.nbcrightnow.com/story/27645262/just-ask-shane-why-are-military-helicopters-flying-around-hanford