Tactical Paramedic Team (TEMS)

The Anne Arundel County Fire Department (AACoFD) Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) team has played an indispensable role in supporting the Anne Arundel County Police Department's (AAPD) Quick Response Team (QRT) in a variety of high-risk operations throughout 2024. The team continues to uphold its commitment to providing immediate and life-saving medical care during law enforcement operations, showcasing its dedication and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities and Operations:

The TEMS team supports the QRT during:

• High-risk search warrants: Providing critical medical care during potentially dangerous law enforcement operations.

• Armed barricades: Ensuring that medics are on standby to assist during standoffs and hostage situations.

• Training exercises: Participating in training for SWAT, Sniper schools, and tactical days to maintain readiness.

• Quick Reaction Force (QRF): Supporting large-scale events requiring rapid deployment of medical personnel.

• Support for allied police agencies: Assisting other law enforcement bodies during extraordinary law enforcement events across different jurisdictions.

In addition to their field responsibilities, TEMS members are also tasked with:

• Maintaining medical histories of QRT members to ensure effective treatment if injuries occur.

• Conducting extensive training, including advanced skills such as wound packing, tourniquet application, needle decompression, and IV administration.

• Ensuring the Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs) for all team members are properly stocked with necessary medical supplies.

• Developing detailed medical plans for tactical operations, which include mapping out nearby fire stations, trauma centers, and designated landing zones for air medical evacuation.

Achievements and Recognition:

TEMS has played a significant role in the success of the QRT, contributing to a marked increase in tactical operations. In 2024, the TEMS team supported 142 tactical operations, a notable increase from the previous year’s 99 operations. The year 2024 has been just as busy, with the team remaining crucial to the QRT’s operations.

In recognition of their exceptional service, TEMS members received the Department's Unit Citation Award during the AAPD Annual Awards Banquet on June 10th, 2024, alongside members of the Special Operations Division Quick Response Team. This award highlighted the team's high level of expertise, readiness, and commitment to the success of critical operations.

The current members of the TEMS team include:

• TEMS Medical Director: Dr. Jonathan Wendell

• Captain Yuliya Brown

• Lieutenants Pat Kinnier and Phil Stratton

• Paramedics Summer Brown, Chris Baker, Michael Smith, Jeannie Hannas, Brandy Wilson, Jonathan Bates

The program has been shaped by the dedication of former members, whose contributions were vital in establishing the high standards the team adheres to today. Former members include:

• Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford

• Division Chief: Glenn James III

• Battalion Chief: Jay Cornell

• Captain Kris Hall

• Lieutenants James Clopein, Bruce Fritz (ret.), Kurt Rubach (ret.)

• Paramedics Charlie Pendorf (ret.), Ray Dobson (former).

Dedication and Commitment:

TEMS members are on call for a large portion of the year, responding to emergencies at any time of day or night, ensuring the success of QRT operations while balancing their responsibilities within the Fire Department. This availability underscores these members' extraordinary commitment to maintaining their readiness and skill through rigorous training and field operations. The Anne Arundel County Fire Department’s TEMS team continues to be a cornerstone of the Quick Response Team and an integral part of ensuring the safety and success of high-risk operations. The professionalism, dedication, and specialized training of its members make it one of the premier tactical medicine teams in the state, well-respected both locally and beyond.