The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office and the San Angelo Police Department co-hosted a 60-hour Basic SWAT Course last week, according to a March 9 announcement. Eight personnel from both agencies, all recently accepted on probationary status with their Special Operations Group teams, participated in the intensive training.
The joint course aimed to prepare law enforcement officers for critical and dangerous situations by focusing on teamwork and tactical skills. Instructors from both agencies led sessions covering medical integration, legal considerations, ballistic shield movement, and specialized building entry tactics. The program consisted of five consecutive 12-hour days of instruction.
Three members of the San Angelo Fire Department’s Tactical Medicine program also took part in the training. These TacMed members work alongside law enforcement during SWAT operations to provide immediate emergency medical care when needed.
This marks the first time that Special Operations teams from both agencies have jointly hosted a Basic SWAT Course locally. Previously, personnel often had to travel to other cities or states for this level of training. By holding the course in San Angelo, both departments were able to save on travel and lodging costs while maximizing their training budgets.
Tom Green County Sheriff Nick Hanna said, “When agencies train together, they respond better together. This course strengthens the partnership between our departments and ensures the Concho Valley has highly trained professionals ready for the critical incidents that we must be prepared for.” The collaboration is seen as an example of growing trust and cooperation among local public safety agencies.
