WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Twenty-two members of the 445th Aerospace Medicine Squadron and Aeromedical Staging Squadron participated in three-day Tactical Combat Casualty Care training March 4-6, 2024.
The training is divided into three tiers dependent on the Airman's occupation and replaces the Self Aid and Buddy Care Program.
“All service members are required to complete the Tier 1 training during basic training,” said Master Sgt. Christian Terrill, 445th AMDS medical technician.
The March training was a mixed version of the Tier 2 and 3 training, as it required more advanced skills training such as needle decompression (Tier 2), cricothyroidotomy (Tier 3), and medication/antibiotic management via the combat wound medication pack. The course also required not only written tests but practical application where Airmen could show and discuss with instructors the proper way to provide treatment (also known as didactic), according to Terrill.
TCCC divides a combat situation into three phases: Care Under Fire, Tactical Field Care and Tactical Evacuation Care.
“For medical professionals, TCCC response algorithm is different than civilian pre-hospital care so everyone at all Tiers will learn something new or different,” Terrill said. “Because of this, we are looking at the best casualty survival rate in U.S. history.”
TCCC is vitally important as it gives students the skill sets to save critically wounded people when definitive care is not immediately available, said Tech. Sgt. Anthony Marrazzi, 445th AMDS medical technician.
“The training was very well received,” Terrill continued. “This is the third hybrid class taught by the AMDS and feedback has consistently been positive. Even in the mid-technology presentation model we used, material is well received.”
“After the class, they felt very comfortable treating a casualty with major bleeding and airway issues,” said Marrazzi.
“There are many videos and hands-on exercises that keep learners engaged to maximize retention and recall,” Terrill explained. “As the program continues to advance, the lead instructors for all three medical units, Master Sgt. Todd Ryan for ASTS and Capt. William Rittenour for 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, are looking forward to opportunities to increase didactics and simulations to further maximize the value of our Airmen’s time while preparing them for the challenges of the future.”