Over the past several months, brigades of the Texas State Guard (State Defense Force) have been undergoing intense and comprehensive Annual Training designed to sharpen the skills and mission readiness of every soldier in the force. From the 2nd to the 6th Brigade, Guardsmen across the state have completed grueling, mission-focused exercises. Now, it was the 1st Brigade’s turn to step forward and demonstrate why the Texas State Guard proudly stands by its credo: Equal to the Task.
From May 15–18, the 1st Brigade conducted its Annual Training, immersing in a range of essential exercises that ensure their readiness to serve during emergencies. This year’s training placed a strong emphasis on hurricane preparedness, with hurricane season set to begin on June 1st. Last year’s early-season storms—Tropical Storm Alberto in June and Hurricane Beryl in July—caused significant damage across Texas, highlighting the urgent need for trained and ready forces.
Throughout the multi-day training, 1st Brigade soldiers participated in a variety of critical courses and operational scenarios, including:
- Setting up Emergency Field Communications to ensure connectivity in disaster-struck areas.
- Refresher courses on the Texas Code of Military Justice, reinforcing military discipline and the legal framework governing State Military personnel.
- Advanced emergency medical response, including triaging injured personnel, stabilizing patients in the field, and properly transporting critically injured individuals to hospitals.
- Search and Rescue refresher training, vital for locating and extracting Texans trapped or lost during disasters.
- Command and Control of missions, reinforcing leadership and coordination during multi-agency operations.
- Emergency Tracking Network (ETN) training, covering the use of this electronic system designed to track evacuees from an evacuation hub to safe shelters beyond the disaster zone.
This list represents just a portion of the training that 1st Brigade Guardsmen undertook during this critical period.
Maj. Gen. Roger Sheridan, Commanding General of the Texas State Guard, visited the 1st Brigade during their exercises, accompanied by Col. Daniel McCarroll, Chief of Staff and Officer-in-Charge of the Operational Planning Team (OPT), and members of the OPT team. Together, they observed readiness operations and participated in a simulated Emergency Tracking Network scenario, underscoring the Guard’s real-world commitment to serving Texans when it matters most.
Annual Training is not merely a routine exercise—it is a vital part of keeping the Texas State Guard ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. The skills honed during these sessions directly impact the Guard’s ability to respond quickly and effectively during crises.
At StateDefenseForce.com, we proudly commend the soldiers and officers of the 1st Brigade for their dedication and service. These men and women willingly sacrifice time away from family, friends, careers to ensure Texas has a force that is trained, prepared, and Ready When Called. Their service is not only commendable—it’s essential to the safety and security of Texas and The United States.
We would also like to recognize the outstanding work of the Texas State Guard Public Affairs Department, widely regarded as one of the top, if not the best, State Defense Force public affairs organizations in the nation. Their team consistently delivers exceptional coverage of Texas State Guard training events, operational missions, and public outreach efforts. Through their talent, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, they help tell the story of the Texas State Guard and the dedicated individuals who serve within its ranks.
Troops check in as 1st Brigade, Texas State Guard kicks off Annual Training—boots on the ground and mission-ready. More to follow as troops accomplish critical training, sharpen skills, and stand ready to serve Texas. (Photos by Cpl. Carlos Arenas and Capt. Esperanza Meza)
1st Brigade, Texas State Guard wrapped up several productive days of Annual Training from May 15–18, honing vital skills and reinforcing mission readiness. From search and rescue to medical response, Guardsmen trained with purpose—preparing for hurricane season and other emergencies as they come. A glimpse into the first days of training, with much more ahead. Always ready to serve Texans! (Video by Cpl. Carlos Arenas)
Maj. Gen. Roger Sheridan, Commander of the Texas State Guard, visited the 1st Brigade with Chief of Staff and Officer-in-Charge of the Operational Planning Team (OPT), Col. Daniel McCarroll, and a contingent of the OPT team to observe Annual Training exercises and readiness operations ahead of the upcoming hurricane season. The Emergency Tracking Network (ETN) scenario included participation from members of the OPT and Maj. Gen. Roger Sheridan.
Source: Texas State Guard
