Commandos in a role you have never seen before, conducted a demanding tactical medicine workshop

In the present-day conditions, where security challenges are constantly changing and becoming more complex, the importance of possessing first aid skills and knowledge for members of the armed forces is crucial, not only for survival, but also for maintaining the operational readiness of the entire unit.

“It is exactly the correct and quick, or rather timely reaction that can save lives and enable the continuation of the mission,” the Commander of the Special Operations Forces Command Colonel Ivan Miloš explained on the occasion of the tactical medicine workshop for members of the Special Operations Forces Command teams, primarily for combat medics and medical personnel in the unit.

The Tactical Medicine Workshop was held during February at Josip Jović barracks at Udbina, with the aim to refresh and broaden knowledge and skills in the field of providing first aid in special forces (Tactical Combat Casualty Care – TCCC), through the triage by SOF combat medics, members designated to attend special forces combat medic schools, command staff in teams and other members of the Special Operations Forces Command.

“After the demonstration, we can proudly say that members of the Special Operations Forces Command possess exceptional skills and knowledge in the field of tactical medicine. This is the result of intensive training and continued professional development, as well as cooperation with experts from international forces, which allows us to keep pace with the best in the world,” Colonel Miloš said.

Combat medics of the the Special Forces Command receive education abroad, they undergo demanding training and practice in the civilian sector

One of the main characteristics of such military training is that it is conducted in as realistic conditions as possible so that in real situations, special forces members can react with as little stress as possible. The training equipment and simulators within this workshop contributed to making all scenarios of providing first aid in combat conditions as realistic as possible.

The Special Operations Forces Command usually trains its combat medics abroad, and the trainings they undergo are very demanding. In addition to working in military conditions, they also undergo internships in civilian medical institutions.

“Performing military tasks while simultaneously providing first aid to casualties is extremely complex and requires a top level of physical and mental fitness. Special forces members must be able to quickly assess the situation, make decisions under pressure, and apply medical procedures precisely and effectively. In addition to medical skills, teamwork skills, communication, and the ability to maintain calmness and concentration in stressful conditions are also crucial,” explained the SFC Commander, adding that the workshop was also attended by representatives of the medical profession from NATO Special Operations Hedquarters, as well as company representatives who presented their triage and training resources.

Visit to the workshop was also paid by Assistant Chief of the General Staff for Health Care, MG Boris Zdilar, the CSM of the Armed Forces SM Filip Tunjić, the CSM of the Special Forces Command Zoran Sabo, doctors from the Military Health Center as well as doctors and medical staff from the civilian sector; the President of the Croatian Medical Chamber, the President of the Croatian Chamber of Nurses, the Director of Sveti Duh Clinical Hospital, the President of the Croatian Association of Emergency Medical Workers and others.

“Without a doubt, members of the Special Operations Forces Command once again proved their excellence in this activity and justified the epithet “the tip of the spear” of the Croatian Armed Forces. I am proud of their dedication, professionalism and courage. They are a true example to everyone in the Armed Forces and the pride of Croatia,” Colonel Miloš said in closing.