2026 has been a Hot NEST Summer! NNSA’s Nuclear Emergency Support Team spent the season monitoring threats from the air, in the crowds, and behind the scenes at major events all season. Quiet, professional, and keeping America safe all summer long.
National Nuclear Security Administration
September 8, 2026
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2026 has been a busy year for NNSA’s Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST), the summer especially. In addition to its regular duties of responding to radiological incidents and monitoring for nuclear and radiological threats, the team has been called upon to staff and keep safe numerous extra events.
NEST typically works with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials to keep top-tier events safe – think the Super Bowl, Boston Marathon, or a Presidential inauguration. But what if there were more? Could the team continue to protect America?
The answer is a resounding and patriotic yes!
“I am proud of the NEST team and how we have risen to the demands over this summer, and throughout the year,” said Wendin Smith, Associate Administrator and Deputy Under Secretary for Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation – the NNSA office that oversees NEST. “This summer, from coast to coast and major event to major event, the NEST team has monitored for radiological and nuclear threats from the air, in the crowds, and alongside law enforcement at the World Cup, UFC Freedom 250, America’s 250 celebration, and the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. To say it has been a demanding year is an understatement. We are honored to continue to serve and protect America.”
Here’s a look at what they’ve accomplished so far.
UFC Freedom 250
NEST supported the U.S. Secret Service and FBI Washington Field Office during UFC Freedom 250 in Washington, D.C., providing specialized radiological and nuclear security expertise as part of the broader public-safety effort. The mission was one of several high-profile America 250 activities supported by NEST over the summer.
As thousands gathered for UFC Freedom 250 near the White House, NEST personnel supported federal partners working to protect public health and safety, providing specialized radiological and nuclear security expertise as part of the broader security effort. For NEST responders, the mission meant serving behind the scenes during a highly visible public gathering, where preparation, teamwork, and trust among partners were essential.
“Partnership with our federal, state, and local partners is a huge part of our success,” said Scott Porwick, leader of the UFC Freedom 250 response. “Although I didn’t get to see any of the bouts, I did see our teams working together on a common mission.”
World Cup
NEST supported FIFA World Cup activities across 11 U.S. host cities, providing specialized radiological and nuclear security support as part of the broader public safety effort. The mission demonstrated NEST’s ability to support a major international event on a national scale while continuing to meet other operational duties.
As millions gathered across America for the World Cup, NEST personnel helped protect spectators, athletes, and communities throughout the tournament. This nationwide effort required teams from across the NEST enterprise to work together over several weeks, often while simultaneously supporting other major events.
"Supporting the World Cup in Miami was a memorable experience,” said Ron Sykes, NEST Radiological Assistance Program Team Captain. “Seeing NEST’s expertise in action alongside federal and local partners made me proud to contribute to public safety on such a global stage."
Salute to America
NEST personnel supported the U.S. Secret Service and FBI during the Salute to America 250 celebration in Washington, D.C., providing specialized radiological and nuclear security expertise as part of the broader security effort.
As Americans gathered on and around the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, NEST personnel helped protect one of the country’s most significant Independence Day celebrations.
“The highlight was seeing the many professionals working across organizational and geographic boundaries with a shared commitment to public safety,” said Shad Keele, Team Scientist.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix
NEST supported the U.S. Secret Service, FBI Washington Field Office, U.S. Park Police, and Metropolitan Police Department during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C., providing specialized radiological and nuclear security expertise as part of the broader public-safety effort.
As crowds gathered for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, NEST personnel supported federal and local partners working to protect public health and safety during a high-profile event. Their work reflects NEST’s broader commitment to showing up quietly, professionally, and ready to help keep major public gatherings safe.
“The Freedom 250 Grand Prix represented the culmination of NEST’s demanding summer of national special-event support,” said Paul Dimmerling, NEST Senior Response Official. “The best part was working to help protect the public while serving side by side with partners in a complex, high-energy environment.”