S.W.A.T.


S.W.A.T. - 1/2/18

The presentation by San Diego Police Department (SDPD) Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team at the Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center was excellent. It was fascinating to learn about the history that led to the formation of this elite unit of the police force. Unlike agencies in other parts of the state or country, we have the privilege of having nine police stations/divisions, spanning Carmel Valley to San Ysidro and in between, all of which have SWAT units.

The specialized and rigorous training that people must endure to not only make it through the police academy, but then to complete the SWAT Academy is truly mind-boggling. Add to that the daily routine of having to wear a load of heavy gear on any given day, despite the weather, location, or any mitigating factors that make the job so much more challenging, along with having the ability to think on their feet and be a problem solver in dangerous, life-threatening situations is truly amazing. I was always in awe of the bravery of the police officers who put their lives at risk to protect us, but after this day, I have a whole new appreciation for the SDPD and their specialized units.


I had just watched a recorded program "S.W.A.T.," a new television series (airs on CBS at 10pm on Thursday nights) that depicts SWAT activities in Los Angeles the night before the SWAT demonstration at the Kroc Center, so it was really fun to be able to see and feel the equipment used.
 
The introduction of drones, both piloted and non-piloted, to the tools and tactics the SDPD employs helps to ensure that it has the means to be on the cutting edge of law enforcement activities, both nationally and internationally. However, the newest technology is not synonymous with the best and most efficient tool for the job, as pagers are preferred to cell phones for reliable, communication capabilities for SWAT team members. It just goes to show that a combination of "old school" and "new school" is a beautiful marriage of  techniques and procedures that help to ensure the best possible outcome, for both the SDPD, and the communities they serve.


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