One of the hallmarks of the ALERT experience is our strong emphasis on hands-on training. Even courses that are heavily academic incorporate a significant amount of experiential learning. For example, in our EMT course, which is one of the more academically challenging courses we offer, students spend many hours on scenarios to help them solidify what they’re learning. Similarly, the Missions class includes a lot of reading and discussion about God’s heart for the world, but the students also make trips to local homeless ministries and children’s homes, and cap it all off with a cross-culture missions trip.

In current news, 2nd Phase just completed their rope rescue class which, not surprisingly, incorporates a significant amount of hands-on training. It was a very hot week here in East Texas, but the men did well and God granted safety through all of the training.

Captain Phillip Vanderford | Unit 41
ALERT Battalion Commanding Officer