U.S. Army Europe's Medical Brigade trains future expert field medics

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany (Jan. 23, 2014) -- The 30th Medical Brigade conducted an exercise Jan. 12-15 at the Grafenwoehr Training Area to provide Soldiers from the 30th Medical Brigade Headquarters, 212th Combat Support Hospital, or 212th CSH, and 421st Medical Battalion (Multifunctional), also known as the 421st MMB, with hands-on training to prepare themselves for the intensity and intricacies of the upcoming U.S. Army in Europe Expert Field Medic Badge, USAREUR EFMB, competition in March.

Over the course of the four-day training, Soldiers received detailed instruction and demonstration on EFMB combat testing lanes, study materials for the written test and refinement classes and practical exercises on land navigation. They loaded patients on and utilized every type of evacuation platform, to include four-man litters, an Oregon Spine Splint and a Black Hawk medical evacuation helicopter.

1st Lt. Ashley Restuccio, the brigade headquarters adjutant, explained during the training how she planned to attain the coveted badge. "I have downloaded the entire handbook and started studying each of the lane requirements to better prepare myself," she said. "I also began road marching twice a week with a friend of mine so that I will be able to run through the finish line."

With only a 17-percent pass rate, the EFMB is awarded to military medical personnel who demonstrate exceptional competence and outstanding performance during a 120-hour testing event.

During the one-week competition, Soldiers must prove proficiency in at least 75 percent of each of four categories: tactical combat casualty care, communications, warrior skills and evacuation. They must also pass a written test with a 75-percent score or better and effectively plot and find three of four grid coordinates during both, day and night land navigation events.

Once the Soldiers pass this gauntlet of tests, they must complete a grueling 12-mile road march while carrying all of the gear they utilized during the week (approximate carried load varies from 40-70 plus pounds). Those who complete the road march in three hours or less without assistance are ceremoniously awarded the coveted badge.

"It will be a challenge, but we must provide this year's candidates with the same preparations we gave last year's candidates," said Col. Scott Dingle, 30th Medical Brigade commander.

In September of 2014, 212th CSH coordinated a USAREUR EFMB competition with a 52-percent pass rate. This pass rate was recorded as the second highest among all EFMB competitions since its establishment in June 1965. This March, 421st MMB is charged with coordinating the competition for approximately 160 expected candidates.

 http://www.army.mil/article/141612/U_S__Army_Europe_s_Medical_Brigade_trains_future_expert_field_medics/

 By Capt. Robert Gallimore