The Texas State Guard began their Search and Rescue (SAR) training program at the National Guard Armory in Greenville, Texas. The training began with a demanding SAR pack test, where guardsmen were required to complete a three-mile fitness hike within an hour while carrying a 15-pound pack. Remarkably, every participant successfully passed the test, demonstrating their physical stamina and commitment. Now the guardsmen will embark on a five-month journey of intensive classroom and field training, designed to equip them with the necessary skills to become qualified Search and Rescue operators. This comprehensive training program will allow them to delve into various SAR specializations, enabling them to explore different aspects of SAR operations and prepare them to assist civil authorities during emergencies.
Search and Rescue (SAR) operations are of utmost importance to the Texas State Guard during emergencies. As a crucial component of their responsibilities, SAR enables the guardsmen to locate and rescue individuals who are in distress, stranded, or at risk due to natural disasters or other critical situations. Texas is prone to various emergencies such as floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, which often result in people becoming trapped or isolated. By performing SAR missions, the Texas State Guard can swiftly respond to these emergencies, providing life-saving assistance and ensuring the safety and well-being of affected citizens. Their expertise in SAR techniques, navigation, and coordination with other agencies allows them to efficiently locate and extract individuals from hazardous environments, ultimately mitigating the potential loss of life and minimizing the impact of the disaster. The Texas State Guard’s SAR capabilities are indispensable in supporting civil authorities and contributing to the overall emergency response efforts in the state.
Search and Rescue (SAR) training begins for Texas State Guard guardsmen, starting with a SAR pack test that requires them to complete a three-mile fitness hike with a 15-lb pack in less than an hour, with everyone passing, at the National Guard Armory, Greenville, Texas, June 10, 2023. Guardsmen start their five-month journey into the classroom and field training required to become qualified Search and Rescue (SAR) operators, allowing them to explore various SAR specializations and be ready to support civil authorities in emergencies. (Photos by Pfc. Bryan Sather)
Source: Texas State Guard
