On January 25, 2025, the Wyoming National Guard’s 84th Civil Support Team (CST) engaged in a collaborative training exercise with the Teton County Search and Rescue Team and the Wyoming Army National Guard’s G Company, 2-211th Aviation Regiment, in the challenging winter environment of the Teton Mountains.
The joint exercise was designed to enhance skills in helicopter operations, cold weather survival, and readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) emergencies. This training underscores the importance of operational preparedness in Wyoming’s diverse and often harsh landscapes.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Taylor Russell, who led the exercise, emphasized the significance of such training. “Today’s training was all about preparing for real-world missions in some of Wyoming’s most austere environments,” Russell stated. “It’s critical that we test our skills and equipment under these conditions so that when an emergency happens, we’re ready to respond.”
The exercise included helicopter insertions with snow landings, showcasing the complexities of operating in rugged winter conditions. The Teton County Search and Rescue Team played a vital role by aiding in exfiltration and sharing expertise on cold-weather survival.
Russell highlighted the mutual benefits of these training sessions, noting, “This type of joint training benefits all the agencies involved. It helps the CST ensure we’re mission-ready, gives the aviators valuable practice and provides training opportunities for our local partners. Working together before a real-world incident builds the confidence and relationships we need to succeed.”
This partnership not only strengthens operational capabilities but also fosters interagency relationships, vital for an effective response in times of crisis.
