Boy Scouts Troop 22 Visit by Harlingen SWAT Team
SgtMaj James Poe
On Tuesday, March 20th, Troop 22 Scouts were treated to a special event conducted by the officers of the Harlingen, TX, police department SWAT Team. A SWAT (special weapons and tactics) team is an elite tactical unit in various national law enforcement departments. They are trained to perform high-risk operations that fall outside of the abilities of regular officers. SWAT team members’ duties include: performing hostage rescues and counter-terrorism operations; serving high risk arrest and search warrants; subduing barricaded suspects; and engaging heavily-armed criminals. SWAT teams are often equipped with specialized firearms including submachine guns, assault rifles, breaching shotguns, riot control agents, stun grenades, and sniper rifles. They have specialized equipment including heavy body armor, ballistic shields, entry tools, armored vehicles, advanced night vision optics, and motion detectors for covertly determining the positions of hostages or hostage takers inside enclosed structures.
Boy Scouts Get to check out SWAT Gear
The officers gave a superb presentation. They fully explained the mission of a SWAT team, their tactical procedures, and the proper use of individual weapons and equipment items. Our Scouts were then given the rare opportunity to handle and wear the specialized weapons and equipment. To top it off, they were allowed access to a real SWAT tactical vehicle. Wow, this is better than Hollywood!
Boy Scouts Appreciation for SWAT Presentation
The Boy Scouts came away with a new and enhanced appreciation of a SWAT Team and law enforcement. A big hats-off to the Harlingen PD for dedicating the time and expense of providing such a rewarding and instructional event for our Boy Scouts.
Click here for all the pictures of the event.
Learn More About MMA Boy Scouts Troop 22
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