Tucson, Arizona - Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents recently completed training in a variety of life saving techniques specific to the remote desert environment.

Border Patrol agents from El Centro, El Paso and Tucson sectors attended a 50-hour Basic Tactical Medic Course from June 22-26. Throughout the week, agents participated in scenarios that included a variety of field techniques, such as administering IVs while transporting patients, applying tourniquets to patients while under fire, and carrying patients to safety.

“This training enables BORSTAR (Border Patrol’s Search, Trauma and Rescue team) to go into situations that normal EMS aren’t trained to deal with,” said Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Michael F. Friedrich. “It’s a necessary skillset.  It’s law enforcement specific, based on the military’s tactical combat casualty care. It teaches people how to use their civilian-taught skillset in tactical situations.” 

All agents in attendance are certified emergency medical technicians and are part of the Border Patrol’s Special Operations Group, which includes BORSTAR.