VCOM View Magazine Vol. 14 | No. 1

Louisiana’s Volunteer Generation Fund grant. The West Monroe Police Department (WMPD) led training on light search and rescue, ensuring students were prepared to assist in locating and rescuing survivors during emergencies. VCOM-Louisiana’s two mobile medical units were integrated into the exercises, giving students hands-on experience in triaging patients as it served to house necessary triage supplies. Additionally, the American Red Cross, in collaboration with Volunteer America, ran shelter simulation exercises to prepare students for managing shelter operations during a disaster. This two-day training demonstrated the power of interagency collaboration. The combined efforts of each organization ensured that VCOM-Louisiana students are prepared and equipped to step up in times of crisis. With this knowledge and hands-on experience, they are ready to make a difference in their communities when disaster strikes. A special note of gratitude is extended to M. Kay Bonner, PhD, of the ULM psychology department, and Mark Johnson, PhD, of the ULM criminal justice department. Johnson planned and executed the day-two mass casualty incident simulation with support from West Monroe CERT team leader Jim Addison and ULM’s campus CERT team members. WMPD Captain CJ Beck and community members from the West Monroe CERT team planned and executed the light search and rescue simulation exercise on day one. Special thanks are also extended to the Louisiana Baptists Disaster Relief, who provided meals for all participants throughout the two-day event. These contributions were invaluable in ensuring the success of the training. Thank You to our Community Partners!

John Lipka, MD, associate dean for simulation and technology, co-chair for surgery at VCOM Louisiana, and CERT training leader, shared the importance of the event: “Disaster Day helps prepare our students for the unfortunate reality that they may one day be involved in a disaster. It gives them a deeper understanding of the many professionals involved in pre-hospital care and what it takes to get someone to the hospital. That awareness makes them more compassionate and informed when patients arrive for care. It also prepares them to act. They’ll have the skills to step in and help if they encounter a disaster.” Numerous local agencies played a key role in ensuring the success of this training. The ULM Police Department provided critical instruction on responding to active shooter scenarios, terrorism, cybersecurity, and workplace violence. The Ouachita Parish Fire Department shared expertise on fire safety, utility controls, and using CERT backpacks— essential disaster response kits provided by Volunteer

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