In our recent update, we highlighted the collaboration between the South Carolina State Guard (State Defense Force) and the US Coast Guard during their visit to the Coast Guard facility in Georgetown. It’s noteworthy to mention that such collaborations aren’t unique to South Carolina alone. Other esteemed State Defense Forces, like the California State Guard (State Defense Force) and the Texas State Guard (State Defense Force), regularly train and work with The US Coast Guard, showcasing the depth and breadth of inter-military partnerships.
Taking a closer look at one such recent collaboration, on August 12, 2023, the Texas State Guard, specifically troops from the Bravo Company of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade, embarked on a joint training operation alongside the Coast Guard. The picturesque Lake Conroe in Texas served as the backdrop for this intensive exercise. The teams rigorously trained on waterborne search and rescue operations, delved deep with sub-surface evidence recovery, and mastered the complexities of vertical helicopter extraction.
These cooperative endeavors between the State Defense Forces and the US Coast Guard aren’t merely symbolic or routine. They are strategically essential. By harmonizing their skills and techniques, these forces are better equipped to collaboratively handle future missions. This synergy becomes even more crucial in times of natural disasters and emergencies where seamless coordination can be the difference between life and death. As they train side by side, they are fortifying their readiness for joint task force missions that lie ahead.
Guardsmen of the Boat and Dive teams of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade, Texas State Guard, partner with the Montgomery County Constable and the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Houston-Galveston, to perform waterborne search and rescue, sub-surface evidence recovery, and vertical helicopter extraction of survivors, casualties and evidence from the water, Lake Conroe, Conroe, Texas, Aug. 12, 2023. These exercises better prepare troops to respond with our partner agencies in the wake of natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and other emergencies. Well done! (Texas State Guard photos)
Source: Texas State Guard