Government officials got a firsthand look at the tactical abilities of Troy Police Department’s Emergency Response Team. The department held a demonstration at its firing range Tuesday afternoon.
“This is the first time we’ve done one,” said Lt. Bryan Weed.
Assisting in the demonstration of helicopter deployments and rescues were members of the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Troy’s ERT also trains with Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the U.S. Marshals.
“We try to train with as many folks as we can because if you have an incident … you never know who you’ll need,” said Capt. Wayne Floyd, head of Troy PD Special Operations.
Chief Jimmy Ennis commended the team for its skill and dedication. Officers volunteered for the team and receive no special compensation for it.
“It takes an awful lot of training to be able to execute what was demonstrated today,” Ennis said. “I hope and pray that we never have a need for it, but it’s good to know if we do, we have people here with the training and capability.”
In attendance were councilmen Greg Meeks and Marcus Paramore. State Representative Alan Boothe also watched the team of eight in action.
Boothe also had the opportunity to see the team’s new tactical rescue vehicle he was instrumental in acquiring.
“I was able to get this piece of equipment through Homeland Security. I serve on the Legislative Oversight Committee,” he said. “I was glad to be able to help.”
The surplus Army vehicle was transferred to Troy at no cost. Boothe said the department had requested such a vehicle years ago. It allows the response team to deploy personnel and rescue those who are injured in open areas under attack.
“I hope it’s never needed, but if they do have a need … they can move officers safely,” said Boothe.
Lt. Lee Barnes gave tours of the 36,000-pound armored vehicle. He said it drives like a tank or a Caterpillar. The ERT member had fun behind the wheel, but said safety was its most important feature.
“It’s noisy when you go down the road,” he said. “But it’s good protection.”