By Sgt. Gabrielle Weaver | 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division
FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers with 4th Infantry Division and units across the nation participated in this year’s Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) testing Sept. 14-25, 2020, at Fort Carson.
The EFMB is a special skills badge earned by medical professionals who demonstrate expertise in their field, Soldier skill proficiency and physical fitness. Soldiers who earn the EFMB prove they are among the elite in the Army Medical Corps.
“The 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team was selected to host the event for the 4th Infantry Division,” said Col. Scott Knight, commander, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div. “Soldiers from across the installation have the opportunity to train to the standard, which are publicized in reference documents and shared by us across the division.”
The first week began with standardization week. Candidates received step-by-step instructions of the tasks while testing, and were given the opportunity to practice the tasks on each other.
“The candidates were given an opportunity to see everything they are going to be tested on, and see what right looks like,” said Maj. Michael April, brigade surgeon, 2nd SBCT.
After completing the training, candidates moved to the main event, testing week. Testing required candidates to complete combat testing lanes as well as pass a written exam, pass the Army Physical Fitness Test and other events. Combat testing lanes allowed candidates to demonstrate their expertise in a wide range of medical and Soldier tasks, to include using communication equipment, evaluating patients, evacuating casualties and weapons proficiency.
“The second week, (candidates) go through a sequence of tests,” April said. “As they succeed, they will continue to advance and culminate with a 12-mile ruck march.”
The passing candidates, 22 of the original 113, earned the prestigious EFMB during a pinning ceremony Sept. 25.
“It feels really great,” said 1st Lt. Claire Schmelzenbach, executive officer, Charlie Company, 704th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd SBCT. “I get to go home today and really appreciate it.”
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