WARRIOR BASE, South Korea (May 31, 2012) -- U.S. Army medics participated in the Expert Field Medical Badge qualification course at this base near the Korean Demilitarized Zone in May.
The EFMB qualification program challenges medics under conditions designed to replicate the fog of war.
Medics are tested on medical, evacuation, communication and combat skills. They also must successfully complete a written examination, a 12-mile march and day and night land navigation courses.
For this year's EFMB program, 254 Soldiers from 65th Medical Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, 1st Signal Brigade, 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 501st Military Intelligence Brigade, and the Pacific Regional Medical Command in Hawaii served as the training cadre and staff.
At the EFMB graduation ceremony here May 31, Eighth Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rodney D. Harris said Army medics had performed a critical mission on the Korean Peninsula for more than 61 years.
"Our medical professionals continue to play a vital role here, staying ready to fight and win if necessary while providing world class health care for our service members, civilians and families in armistice," said Harris.
"Following this training program, all medics will return to their units better trained to survive on the battlefield, to treat casualties and conserve the fighting strength of our forces," said Harris.
Harris added that the medics demonstrated Eighth Army's commitment to maintaining security on the Korean Peninsula and stability in Northeast Asia.
"Holding this EFMB course near the Korean DMZ is another example of our commitment to staying ready to fight and win on Freedom's Frontier," said Harris, "and nothing is more important to our readiness than our ability to provide prompt medical care on the battlefield."
Related Links:
Army.mil: Asia and Pacific News
STAND-TO!: Eighth Army - An Operational Field Army Headquarters
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