"We train as we fight....."

     We can't seem to argue with the Army adage.  It has worked for them for years.  And those of us who are wise, have adopted it unto ourselves.  FEMA is no exception.  Recently, those of us who have taught FEMA's WMD curriculum within its USAR branch since 2001, spent time in Las Vegas retooling the course work.  Ancient acronyms were replaced, operational procedures revamped, and old learning styles revisited.  We had the chance to renew old friendships from 2001 and before, and find new friends who have joined our band since.  It still amazes me how broad and fluid the field of WMDs is.  It changes as often as those who choose to commit themselves to it.  It seems that as soon as we grasp the new information......it flips.  So, we continue to train because training is the cornerstone of preparedness for us.  We take new knowledge, and apply it to the fight, and hope our students apply it in the field.  Because one day, they will be the ones to teach others the way to battle.......
~Leland