Military Police train in lifesaving techniques

Photo By Sgt. David Choi | Army Staff Sgt. Matthew G. McVey from Vacaville, Calif., the supply sergeant for the 49th Military Police Brigade, Fairfield, Calif., makes preparations for an intravenous infusion during the Combat Lifesaver Course.  

FAIRFIELD, UNITED STATES

03.22.2009

Story by Spc. David Choi 

69th Public Affairs Detachment

FAIRFIELD, Calif. - With Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 49th Military Police Brigade polishing Soldier-related tasks for their upcoming deployment to Baghdad, the Fairfield-based unit took part in the Army's Combat Lifesaver Course, March 21.

The course, designed to prepare Soldiers during life-threatening emergencies, was not only welcome instruction for the deploying unit, but also a necessary one that contained vital demonstrations and standard operating procedures. From properly dressing a wound, to placing a distress call to the appropriate channel, the course is one of the most beneficial to a deploying Soldier.

"This is one of the most critical courses in the Army," explains 1st Lt. Edward L. Bombita, HHC's company commander, a resident of Hanford, Calif. "The main thing to retain from this course is to have the skills to help each other and come back alive."

Being his third deployment, Bombita is no stranger to the amount of training Soldiers endure throughout their careers. "You don't know when it is necessary to save a life," he claimed. "Anything can happen. Equipping yourself with combat care and basic first aid however, not only provides assistance to Soldiers, but also helps in life out of the military in case of an accident."

The course is not only designed to provide valuable training, said Sgt. Jefferson J. Austrie, a resident of Tracy, Calif., it also boosts confidence and fosters positive attitudes. Practicing different methods of carrying a simulated casualty and preparing a mannequin for needle chest decompression gives Soldiers and all servicemembers a chance to perform the tasks that someday may be expected of them.

"The course and instructors were very knowledgeable," said former Marine, now Soldier, Pfc. Melvin N. Brunson of Fairfield, Calif. "We had different ways of doing things in the Marines, but the main concept is still there: if I were to fall, it's good to know someone has my back."

Spc. Frankline B. Holt, a combat medic from Sacramento, Calif., a course trainer with the Task Force Warrior Group, explained what was expected from their instruction, "We hope they gained the rough knowledge to bring their 'battle buddies' back."

With careful instructions for practicing careful procedures, these Soldiers are well on their way in preparing lifesaving techniques through even the most chaotic environments.

• Date Taken: 03.22.2009
• Date Posted: 03.22.2009 21:51
• Story ID: 31465
• Location: FAIRFIELD, US