DEVCOM CBC and 20th CBRNE Command sign research and training agreement
The US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) and 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command 1st Global Field Medical Laboratory (1GFML), signed a memorandum of agreement on research and training on 6 February at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.
The agreement was signed by the director of DEVCOM CBC, Michael Bailey, and Colonel Dennison Segui of 20th CBRNE Command's 1st Global Field Medical Laboratory. It will enable soldiers to conduct research and receive training in the army’s premier chemical and biological defence laboratory, DEVCOM CBC’s Forensic Analytical Center.
Chemical laboratory officers will be able to complete individual critical task list requirements, maintain professional certifications and demonstrate proficiency in chemical and biological threat science through training facilitated by DEVCOM CBC. The agreement also allows 1GFML personnel access to workspaces and to conduct research primarily focused on analysis of unknown chemical threats in complex environmental samples.
Notably, the Forensic Analytical Center is the only US Department of War laboratory designated by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for analysis of both environmental and biomedical samples.
"Direct feedback from those in the field"
Timothy Allan, who works in DEVCOM CBC’s Forensic Analytical Center, said that a 1st Global Field Medical Laboratory soldier-scientist "will be able to work alongside CBC scientists allowing them to take that knowledge and expertise into the field when deployed".
"When 1GFML encounters a chemical threat, that knowledge and relationship will enable the reach-back to CBC to accelerate the time between when a chemical threat occurs and when it is characterised and mitigated."
Meanwhile, Michael Bailey said that the agreement is "a great mechanism to ensure the warfighters have the resources they need and can learn from our team of expert scientists at CBC".
"Our researchers can benefit by the direct feedback from those in the field. Having that insight from the warfighter is essential and will improve future operational success for everyone involved."
On his part, Colonel Segui said: “By enhancing interoperability with DEVCOM CBC, we are improving our ability to deploy rapidly, analyse hazards with precision and support commanders across multiple theatres."
"The agreement represents a decisive step forward in ensuring our expeditionary laboratory remains ready, modernised and fully aligned with emerging threats."
Located at Aberdeen Proving Ground, the 1GFML is a US army unit that deploys worldwide to perform surveillance, execute confirmatory analytical laboratory testing and conduct health hazard assessments of CBRN threats in support of force protection and counter-weapons of mass destruction missions.
