Service members of the Texas State Guard’s (State Defense Force) 1st Brigade recently honed their medical skills with hands-on training at the Waxahachie National Guard Armory. On January 25, 2025, soldiers from Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, conducted lift-and-carry training using medical litters, reinforcing critical patient handling techniques. “Proper patient handling is critical, and soldiers practiced safe techniques to ensure injuries are not worsened during transport,” stated Lt. Col. James McCune, Commander of the 1st Battalion. The battalion functions as a dedicated medical team, composed of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, paramedics, and other medical professionals. These service members are prepared to provide medical care during times of emergency as requested by local or state authorities, ensuring Texas communities receive immediate medical assistance when needed.
Beyond field training, the Texas State Guard prioritizes ongoing education and professional development. Recently, medical personnel from across The State Guard gathered at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas, for a comprehensive medical conference hosted by Colonel Macclements, Texas State Guard Surgeon, and his staff. The conference provided Guard members with advanced training, workshops, and discussions on medical readiness, equipping them with the latest techniques and knowledge to enhance their service capabilities. Attendees gained valuable insights into emergency response procedures, trauma care, and patient management, ensuring they remain prepared to respond to any crisis or disaster situation.
The Texas State Guard is home to one of the largest and most robust medical units in the nation, consisting of hundreds of board-certified doctors, psychiatrists, mental health professionals, EMTs, medics, and other healthcare specialists. These professionals are routinely called upon during statewide emergencies and natural disasters, offering life-saving medical assistance when communities need it most. Even when not on active duty, they continue refining their medical skills to ensure they are always mission-ready. Their expertise has proven invaluable in every mission they perform, as they remain at the forefront of disaster response and public health initiatives across Texas.
One of the most impactful missions the Texas State Guard undertakes is Operation Border Health Preparedness, an initiative that has provided no-cost medical services to thousands of low-income Texans for decades. This annual operation deploys hundreds of soldiers across multiple locations, offering essential healthcare services such as general medical exams, dental care, vision screenings, mental health support, diabetes screenings, immunizations, and prescription glasses. The Texas State Guard collaborates with state agencies, local governments, and numerous non-governmental organizations to ensure the operation covers a broad spectrum of medical needs, improving access to quality healthcare for underserved communities.
The Texas State Guard Medical Corps is a testament to the dedication, skill, and sacrifice of its members. Comprised of highly trained professionals with units playing a critical role in safeguarding the health and well-being of Texans. Whether responding to natural disasters, public health crises, or community outreach missions, these medical professionals consistently demonstrate unwavering commitment and expertise. Their ability to serve in both emergency response and preventative care showcases their versatility and readiness to assist wherever they are needed. We at StateDefenseForce.com commend every member of this force for their service and sacrifices, recognizing their invaluable contributions to both the Texas State Guard and the communities they selflessly support.
Service members from Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, Texas State Guard conduct lift and carry training using medical litters at the Waxahachie National Guard Armory on January 25, 2025. “Proper patient handling is critical, and soldiers practiced safe techniques to ensure injuries are not worsened during transport,” stated Ltc. James McCune, Commander of 1st Battalion. 1st Battalion is a medical team comprised of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, paramedics and others all ready to provide medical care for the community as requested by local or authorities in times of emergency. (Photos by Spc. Art Galias/UPAR)
Col. Macclements, Texas State Guard Surgeon, and his staff recently hosted a medical conference at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. Medical personnel from across the state participated in training and professional development, enhancing their skills and readiness. The conference was a resounding success, further strengthening the capabilities of the Texas State Guard medical team.
