German first responders observe Army medic training

By Mr. Bernd MaiMarch 18, 2016

German first responders observe Army medic training
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German first responders observe Army medic training
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BAUMHOLDER, Germany -- "It is very interesting to see everything that the medical Soldiers must know and train for," said Björn Eckhardt, a member with a local chapter of the German Red Cross.

Eckhardt was among a group of German first responders viewing the U.S. Army in Europe's Expert Field Medical Badge qualification at the military training area near Smith Barracks, which features 195 candidates, including 19 from ally or partner nations from 6 different countries.

County fire department inspector from Birkenfeld, Eberhard Fuhr, who coordinated the invitation from U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz and 21st Theater Sustainment Command on the German side with the emergency services organizations in the district, said watching the competition was "an amazing experience."

"I'm pleased with your interest and that we can show you the demanding requirements that are placed on the participating soldiers," Col. William Stubbs, 30th Medical Brigade commander, told the ten host nation guests.

Lt. Col. Roy Vernon, commander of Baumholder's 421st Multi-Functional Medical Battalion hosting the event, said earning the EFMB is one of the toughest challenges in the military. "The number of Soldiers who earn the badge here in the European theater is roughly 35-40 percent of those who compete."

To earn the badge, Soldiers have to successfully complete four stations, pass a written exam and complete a 20-kilometer march.

The first station involves treatment and removal of wounded soldiers in the field, which includes performing 18 different tasks without error within 90 minutes. Some of those field applications consist of treating fractures and gunshot wounds, caring for traumatized soldiers, and then loading the wounded soldiers in an ambulance.

"One mistake and the contest is finished for the Soldier," said Vernon.

At another station, the soldiers have to find specific checkpoints using a map and compass, four during the day and four at night. Still another station challenge is applying proper first aid and decontamination procedures in the aftermath of am NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) attack, while wearing the protective chemical ensemble and gas mask.

The final station consists of placing the injured soldiers in an armored ambulance. And on the final day, those Soldiers who have successfully completed the stations and passed the written examination, will finish with a 20-kilometer march while wearing a 35lb rucksack.

"Those who complete the entire regimen have definitely earned the Expert Field Medical Badge," said Stubbs, who proudly wears the badge himself.

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